Baptism : A new beginning
We are always making new beginnings: a new job, a new home, a new year with all it's new year's resolutions, a new school, a new relationship, a new car, a new day! The list seems endless! Holy Baptism (or 'Christening') is a new beginning because when we are baptised we become part of Christ's body, the Church, and we begin a life with God that continues throughout our lives.
A beginning often marks a turning point in our life. Baptism too is a turning point because our lives are turned around: away from everything that takes us away from God, embracing everything that leads us closer to God.
There are so many things in our life that become 'ritualised': in other words we go through the motions, doing things without thinking about them, and many things that we do can simply become an empty gesture. So, for instance, saying 'Good Morning' and smiling to the same people you pass every day can either be filled with meaning or it can be very superficial! It's so easy, too, for Baptism to become an empty gesture. But Holy Baptism should only be requested if we really want what it offers and if we really mean what we promise.
We are more than happy, of course, to baptise babies but it is necessary to meet with the parish priest before you make the final decision. Please come along to the Sunday Eucharist at 10.00am and speak to the priest afterwards.
Questions People Ask
What’s the difference between Baptism and Christening?
There isn’t any difference! They are the same thing – just different names.
What will Baptism mean for my child and family?
It’s a good question – because it will only mean anything to you if you put the promises you make into action. If you take the baptism of your child seriously it will mean that you will bring up your child as a Christian. This means taking part in the life of the church: bringing your child to church on a regular basis and attending the Eucharist
What are godparents?
There are lots of strange ideas about what godparents actually are! Godparents are baptised Christians who renew their Baptism promises in the Godchild’s baptism and promise to help the parents to nurture the child in the Christian Faith.
How many godparents do I need?
There is no golden rule, but usually two but no more than four. Godparents must be at least 16 years of age.
Why do godparents need to have been baptised themselves?
Because they are making promises for your child that they have already had made for them, or made themselves.
Is there a charge for Baptism?
No. Holy Baptism is freely given! You may, however, want to give a gift offering to the church in thanksgiving. You can talk to the priest about this. There will also be an opportunity for guests at the Baptism to make an offering if they wish.
What happens after Baptism?
That’s entirely up to you! The priest will baptise your child in good faith that you will keep the promises made on their behalf. That means bringing your child to church! We offer you a warm and sincere welcome!
A beginning often marks a turning point in our life. Baptism too is a turning point because our lives are turned around: away from everything that takes us away from God, embracing everything that leads us closer to God.
There are so many things in our life that become 'ritualised': in other words we go through the motions, doing things without thinking about them, and many things that we do can simply become an empty gesture. So, for instance, saying 'Good Morning' and smiling to the same people you pass every day can either be filled with meaning or it can be very superficial! It's so easy, too, for Baptism to become an empty gesture. But Holy Baptism should only be requested if we really want what it offers and if we really mean what we promise.
We are more than happy, of course, to baptise babies but it is necessary to meet with the parish priest before you make the final decision. Please come along to the Sunday Eucharist at 10.00am and speak to the priest afterwards.
Questions People Ask
What’s the difference between Baptism and Christening?
There isn’t any difference! They are the same thing – just different names.
What will Baptism mean for my child and family?
It’s a good question – because it will only mean anything to you if you put the promises you make into action. If you take the baptism of your child seriously it will mean that you will bring up your child as a Christian. This means taking part in the life of the church: bringing your child to church on a regular basis and attending the Eucharist
What are godparents?
There are lots of strange ideas about what godparents actually are! Godparents are baptised Christians who renew their Baptism promises in the Godchild’s baptism and promise to help the parents to nurture the child in the Christian Faith.
How many godparents do I need?
There is no golden rule, but usually two but no more than four. Godparents must be at least 16 years of age.
Why do godparents need to have been baptised themselves?
Because they are making promises for your child that they have already had made for them, or made themselves.
Is there a charge for Baptism?
No. Holy Baptism is freely given! You may, however, want to give a gift offering to the church in thanksgiving. You can talk to the priest about this. There will also be an opportunity for guests at the Baptism to make an offering if they wish.
What happens after Baptism?
That’s entirely up to you! The priest will baptise your child in good faith that you will keep the promises made on their behalf. That means bringing your child to church! We offer you a warm and sincere welcome!
