Congratulations on becoming a parent - Please let the Parish Priest know as soon as possible (you might even make contact before the birth).
Baptism is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. People get baptised to show they belong to the Catholic faith. They promise that they will try to live in a Christian way.
Usually it is a baby getting baptised. Obviously a baby can't make any promises, so the parents and God-parents make the promises for the baby. We recommend that your child receives the sacrament at an early, rather than later date.
Quote
Children are a gift from the Lord, a child is a reward from Him. Psalm 127:3
5 steps to prepare for Baptism
- One of the parents must be a member of the Catholic church so that there can be some assurance that the child will be brought up in the teaching and practice of the Church as a follower in Christ.
- Your child will need (usually) two Godparents (or Sponsors) one of which must be a practising Catholic as part of their role is to assist you in the bringing up of your child in the ways of the faith. Godparents must be at least 16 years old.
- The Priest will need to explain to you the meaning of the ceremony and the promises you will be making on behalf of your child (this may involve a presentation by the Priest).
- A date will need to be confirmed Baptisms take place on a Sunday at 12:15 after the 11am Mass. Your child will receive a Baptismal candle and a certificate of Baptism. The details will be recorded in the Parish Baptismal Register. These will be needed if your child goes to a Catholic school, prepares for their first holy communion, Confirmation, or indeed Marriage!
- There is no set fee, but a donation for the church would be appreciated so it can continue to work towards a better community.
The Sacrament of Baptism is a serious event in our lives. The baptism water helps our spiritual growth, and the oil makes us strong. Baptism is our first step in growing united with God.