Holy Baptism is a sacrament, or an outward sign of an inner reality.  In the case of baptism, the outward sign is water in which the person is dipped (or the water is poured on the person's head) in the name of God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  It signifies cleansing from sin (that which prevents us being fully human), death to the old life and rebirth to the new life Christ gives us by his Holy Spirit.  We share in the death and resurrection of Jesus and so are made one with him and become members of his body, the church.

In the case of babies being baptised, the parents have the primary responsibility in raising their child in the faith and practice of the church.  They promise to bring the child up in the Christian faith and to participate in the life of the Christian community.  Godparents act as sponsors who assist the parents in their role of Christian care and nurture.  Specifically, their responsibility means that they:

1. Pray regularly for the child
2. Set him/her an example of Christian living
3. Help him/her to grow in the faith of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, in which he or she was baptised
4. Give every encouragement to the child to follow Christ and to fight against evil
5. Help the child look toward confirmation, when he or she will own the promises of baptism for him/herself

It is a requirement for both parents to meet with the parish priest twice: first, to discuss the meaning of baptism and the promises they will make and, second, to rehearse with the godparents for the actual baptism.

Baptisms normally take place at the 9.30 am service on the fourth Sunday of the month.  No baptisms take place during Lent which, in 2008, begins on 6 February and lasts until Easter.  There are no fees for baptisms but you are invited to make a donation on the day of the baptism service.  Baptism is the beginning of a wonderful adventure in life and faith, and we will do all we can to assist you as you share in your child's spiritual growth.

For further enquiries, contact 4332 6129