Parents and Godparents, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ to live always as a child of the Light.

(taken from the Rite of Baptism)

The church wants to rejoice with you at the arrival of your new child, who is created in the image and likeness of God. Baptism is an opportunity for your family and the Parish family to give thanks to God and to celebrate the gift of faith which you seek to give to your child.

Baptisms ordinarily take place here at St. Mary’s either during the 10:00am Sunday Mass or following on from this Mass. Should you choose to have your child baptised following Mass, your child will be welcomed into the Parish Family during Sunday Mass on one of the weekends preceding the Baptism day.

As parents you have the great privilege – and responsibility – to help your child grow in the knowledge and love of God. During the Baptism, parents and godparents make promises on their own behalf and for the child. In preparation for this important moment and to help you to commit to this step, the Parish organises a Baptism Preparation Course which you are obliged to attend. These courses are also open to godparents, should they wish to attend. These courses usually take place on Saturday mornings and last around 90 minutes.

Things to Consider

• At least one parent should be a baptised member of the Catholic Church.
• Normally baptisms take place in the parish where a family is resident. However, if you do not live within St. Mary’s parish, but have a good reason for choosing to have your child baptised here, your own Parish Priest will need to give his permission for the Baptism to take place.
• At least two godparents are required, at least one of whom must be a practising Roman Catholic.
• Baptism is not about an event, it is about a lifestyle which you choose for your child and your family.
• Baptism is entirely free. However, the Parish relies upon your generosity at this significant event for your family.
• We require a minimum of three months’ notice in order to arrange a Preparation Course and find a mutually convenient time for the Baptism.