Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19
Baptism, from “The Seven Sacraments”
Phillips Galle
Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.”
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213
Baptism is the first of three Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church, the other two being Confirmation and Eucharist. Through Baptism we are incorporated into the body of Christ.
In the celebration of the sacrament, the Church is following Jesus’ command to go and baptise in his name. In Baptism the Church passes from the death of sin into new life with the risen Christ. By water and the Holy Spirit, Baptism imprints a special character on the soul.
The celebration of the Sacrament includes a number of ritual actions. Central is the immersion in water (or the pouring of water on the head) as the ancient formula of the Trinity is invoked: I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. The rite includes two separate anointings and the presentation of the baptismal candle, the light of Christ. A white garment is worn, symbolising new life in Christ.
“We imitate Christ’s death by being buried with him in baptism.”
St Basil the Great
Requesting Baptism
Mother of Mercy and St Agatha’s Parish are delighted to welcome new members into our Catholic faith by Baptism. The Parish is here to support families in their faith journeys.
For a child:
Initially, we ask that families contact the Parish Office (3268 3040) to book the date and time for their child’s (children’s) baptism. We also ask they complete a Baptismal Enrolment Form once they have booked a baptismal date with us. A copy of the child’s (children’s) Birth Certificate is required as are copies of the parents’ baptismal certificates (or that of the Catholic parent).
All families preparing for baptism are required to attend a Baptism Preparation session prior to the baptism which is held at St Agatha’s, Clayfield once a month on Sunday mornings at 9.30am after the 8.00am Mass. These can be booked via the Parish Office.
Once all documentation has been received and Baptismal Preparation has been attended, the baptism will go ahead as booked.
Please contact the Parish Office (PH: 3268 3040) to book the Baptism date and Baptismal Preparation session.
For an adult:
Please click here.
