Baptism is of the greatest importance for us because it is the ordinary way of salvation for every human being (ccc. 1257). It is the gateway to the other sacraments and the whole Christian life
Baptism is the sacrament by which we become Christians. It frees us from original sin, makes us children of God, temples of the Holy Spirit and members of the Church.
The water of Baptism symbolises both washing and new life. The effects of Baptism are: the washing away of all sins, especially the state of original sin inherited from our first parents; a new and supernatural life as children of God and members of the Church.
“You were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” Col 2:1
How do we prepare for Baptism?
An adult prepares for Baptism by becoming a catechumen, that is, someone who is being catechised (educated) in the Christian Faith. The formal process and rite for this is called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).
Anyone who believes and has not already been baptised can receive Baptism. Following early Church practice, the Church also baptises the infants of Christian parents, which sacrament bestows the initial grace of faith on those babies. Parents make a promise to bring up their child in the faith of the Church, until that child can make a personal act of commitment to Christ. Newborn babies may be baptised as soon as arrangements can be made.
Baptism is the first and chief sacrament for the forgiveness of sins. The meaning and grace of the sacrament of Baptism are clearly seen in the rites of its celebration. By following the gestures and words of this celebration with attentive participation, the faithful are initiated into the riches this sacrament signifies and actually brings about in each newly baptised person.
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “to proclaim liberty to captives and set the downtrodden free….
Baptism is one of the most significant choices that new parents make about a baby. The parish is here to assist in that process, and to support you on your journey of faith with your new addition.
If you are considering baptism, please speak with Father David or contact him here.
Baptism Group
This group provides support and guidance to families prior to the Baptism, in order to assist with the celebration of the Liturgy.
The group also supports the annual Mass of Celebration for families who have had a baptism during the previous 12 months