Baptism

If you are reading this, perhaps you have just had a new baby arrive. If so, congratulations!

The Sacrament of Baptism finds its root in the command of Jesus to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptising in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is the “gateway” Sacrament by which the new life of grace is given to the person being baptised. Baptism claims us for Christ and makes us a temple of the Holy Spirit. Baptism is the Sacrament which makes us truly a member of the Church and opens for us the way to grow in holiness.

What to do if you would like your child to be baptised

If you haven’t been to Mass or haven’t been involved in the life of the Church for a long time, then this is ok. We will make you welcome. In fact, across all our parishes, we like to make sure that those who wish to be baptised, or have their children baptised, feel a part of the community. To this end, we arrange a programme of welcome and teaching to ensure that this happens.

It is important, though, that at least one of the parents of your child is Catholic, as you will be promising to bring your child up in the practice of the faith and this relies on one of you being a member of the Church. Also, at least one Godparent needs to be Catholic, who is practising their faith and attending Mass regularly. The other Godparents must be baptised / christened in a church whose baptism we recognise so do discuss this with us before asking a potential Godparent.

Finally, it is also important that you live in one of our four parishes. If not, then there needs to be a good reason why your child is baptised here and not in your home parish.

Please contact us if you would like to have your child baptised, or you are considering baptism yourself.