Baptism
Baptism is the first Sacrament of initiation into the Catholic Church. It is the gateway to the other sacraments and the foundation of our Christian life. Through Baptism, we are freed from original sin, reborn as children of God, and incorporated into the Church.
Who can be baptised?
Anyone who has not been baptised before can receive baptism in the Catholic Church. This includes infants, children, and adults.
How to prepare for baptism?
If you wish to have your child baptised in our parish, you need to:
Contact the parish office to register for baptism and provide a copy of your child’s birth certificate.
Attend a baptism preparation session with one of our priests or catechists. This session will help you understand the meaning and responsibilities of baptism and the role of godparents.
Choose godparents for your child who are practicing Catholics and at least 16 years old. They should be confirmed and have received the Eucharist. They should also be willing to support your child in their faith journey.
Celebrate the baptism during one of our scheduled baptismal liturgies or during a Sunday Mass.
If you are an adult who wishes to be baptised in our parish, you need to:
Contact the parish office to register for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program. This program will help you learn about the Catholic faith and prepare you for the sacraments of initiation: baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist.
Attend weekly sessions with our RCIA team and sponsors. These sessions will cover various topics such as Scripture, doctrine, prayer, morality, and liturgy.
Participate in various rites and ceremonies throughout the year, such as the Rite of Acceptance, the Rite of Election, and the Scrutinies.
Celebrate the sacraments of initiation during the Easter Vigil or another suitable time.
What happens during baptism?
During baptism, the following signs and symbols are used:
Water: Water is poured over the head of the person being baptised three times, while the priest or deacon says: “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Water symbolizes cleansing, dying and rising with Christ, and new life in the Holy Spirit.
Oil: Oil of Chrism is used to anoint the person being baptised on the chest and on the crown of the head. Oil of Chrism symbolizes strength, healing, protection, and consecration.
Candle: A candle is lit from the Easter candle and given to the person being baptised or their godparent. The candle symbolizes Christ as the light of the world and the call to be a light for others.
White garment: A white garment is placed on the person being baptised or worn by them. The white garment symbolizes purity, dignity, and new life in Christ.
What are the effects of baptism?
Baptism has several effects on the person who receives it:
It removes original sin and any personal sin committed before baptism.
It gives sanctifying grace, which is a share in God’s own life and love.
It makes us members of Christ’s body, which is the Church.
It gives us a new identity as children of God and heirs of heaven.
It imprints an indelible mark on our soul that can never be erased.
It enables us to participate in the other sacraments and in the mission of the Church.
How to live out our baptism?
Baptism is not only a one-time event but a lifelong commitment. As baptised Christians, we are called to:
Grow in our faith through prayer, study, and service.
Worship God through regular participation in Mass and other sacraments.
Love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength.
Love our neighbour as ourselves and practice charity and justice.
Witness to Christ by our words and actions in our family, workplace, community, and world.
If you have any questions or concerns about baptism or if you would like to schedule a baptism for yourself or your child, please contact us at edcathpar[at]adam.com.au or call us on 0499 486 699. We look forward to welcoming you into our parish family!