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baptism

Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ. “Therefore ... we are members one of another.”

Baptism also incorporates us into the Church. From the baptismal font is born the one People of God of the New Covenant, which transcends all the natural or human limits of nations, cultures, races and sexes. “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body”.

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Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist are the Sacraments of Christian Initiation. Baptism is the gateway to life in the Spirit. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as Sons and Daughters of Christ. We become members of Christ; are incorporated into the Church and share in her mission. (see CCC 1213)

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Baptism comes from the Greek word baptizein which means to ‘plunge’ or ‘immerse’. The plunge into the water symbolizes the catechumen’s burial into Christ’s death, through which he rises in resurrection with Christ, as “a new creature”. (see CCC 1214)

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Baptism is necessary for Salvation. By Baptism all sins are forgiven, original sin and all personal sins, as well as all punishment for sin. (see CCC 1257 and 1263)

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PRACTICE IN THE PARISH

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ADULT BAPTISM

Adults who wish to be received into the faith should meet one of the Parish Fathers preferably in May/June to get enrolled into the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. The classes begin in June and continue till March of the following year.

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INFANT BAPTISM 

The parents of the infant should come and meet one of the Fathers to discuss the requirements for baptism e.g. the form, the baptismal robe, the candle, Godparents, participation in the liturgy.


Parents who intend to have their infant baptised also need to attend a Pre–Baptism Catechesis.

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PRE-BAPTISMAL CATECHESIS 

Pre-Baptismal Catechesis helps parents to prepare for the Baptism of their child and, in the process, renew as adults the grace of their own baptism. The programme is facilitated by a threefold thrust, as it helps parents to:

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  1. DISCOVER the true meaning of Baptism

  2. REFLECT upon it from the perspective of their own responsibility as Catholic parents

  3. EXPERIENCE the renewed grace of baptism in their own lives

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For further information, please contact the Parish office.

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POINTERS FOR CHOOSING A GODPARENT FOR YOUR CHILD 

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Should we choose a relative or a friend or someone else? Should we choose someone who is good looking or someone who is rich? Who should it be? The choices are plenty. Well, here’s something to think about. Remember, the focus is on someone who will help the parents in the holistic growth of the child.

 

The criteria laid down by the church for godparents are: 

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  1. He / She should have received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Eucharist and Confirmation.

  2. The godparent should be at least 16 years of age.

  3. The parents cannot become the godparents of their child.

 

This means that the godparent should be someone who:

 

  1. Is a practicing Catholic with a deep faith.

  2. Knows Catholic doctrines and understands the Sacrament of Baptism.

  3. Can be trusted to maintain a long term relationship with the child.

  4. Enjoys patience & can relate to a child.

  5. Enjoys stability in his/her life.

  6. Has a high moral character.

  7. Would be an exemplary role model for the child.

  8. The God Parents also have to attend the Pre-baptism course session on the role and requirements of God Parents.

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