Sacrament of Baptism

                 Welcome to St Bernard’s for the baptism of your child – new life in Christ.

Baptism is traditionally celebrated for children as infants, marking the beginning of their journey in the Catholic faith. This sacrament, according to the Rite of Baptism for Children, involves parents and godparents making a commitment to raise the child in the Catholic faith.

The preparation for infant baptism is seen as a prime opportunity for faith formation for parents and godparents. To this end, parents are required to attend a preparation session.

Baptisms typically occur within the parish where the family resides or regularly worships. When multiple children are baptised on the same day, it is preferable to hold a single ceremony, ideally during a Sunday Eucharist to emphasise the communal nature of the sacrament. The presence of the parish community is encouraged at baptisms, even if not celebrated within the Eucharist. This fosters a sense of communal support and welcome for the newly baptised child and their family.

BAPTISM

Congratulations on deciding to baptise your child!

What is Baptism?

Baptism is the first step in your child's journey of faith. It welcomes them into the Catholic community and begins their initiation into the Church, connecting them with the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. Baptism is about being made a part of the community of faith; it is not a private family occasion. Therefore baptisms are normally conducted during Sunday Mass or with several other families at another time on Sunday in the parish church.

Preparation for Baptism

Parental Involvement:

Preparation Sessions: Parents must attend sessions to understand the significance of Baptism and their role in their child's faith journey. Responsibilities: Parents pledge to raise their child in the faith, attending Mass regularly, and teaching them about God's love.

The foundation of worship is one's relationship with God.

Role of Godparents:

  • Must be active, fully initiated members of the Catholic Church.

  • Support the child's faith development alongside the parents.

The Baptism Ceremony

Community Celebration:

Naming and Welcome (usually done at a parish mass before the Baptism).

  • The ceremony is a communal event, involving prayers, anointing with oil, and pouring of water.

  • Parents and godparents participate actively, affirming their faith and commitment.

Traditional Rites:

Anointing: Symbolises strength and healing.

Water: Represents cleansing and new life in Christ.

Vows: Parents and godparents profess their faith and commitment to guiding the child.

White Garment (Stole): symbolises new life in Christ. Parish will supply.

Candle: Baptismal candle is lit from the paschal candle beside the font and presented to the new member as a sign of the light of Christ.

After Baptism

Ongoing Support:

Faith Development: Engage in parish programs to nurture your child's faith, leading towards their Confirmation and First Holy Communion

BLESSINGS ON YOUR FAMILY AS YOU EMBARK ON THIS SACRED JOURNEY!

Process

1. Read the Brochure Baptism Brochure

2. Complete the Enquiry Form below and book a parent session.

3. Attend the parent session. Here you can book your date required.

4. Confirmation email sent by church office.

5. Ceremony

6. Return to Parish as part of God’s family