Baptism
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What is Baptism?
Baptism is the foundation of the whole of Christian life. It is the gateway to life in the Holy Spirit and the door that gives access to the other sacraments.
Who can be Baptised?
The Sacrament of Baptism is open to all who desire to enter into the Christian life. Parents may choose for their child to be baptised according to the instructions given in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Can our child still be baptised if one or both parents are not Catholic?
Baptism is the sacrament of initiation into the Church. Bringing children into the family of God, the Church, requires parental consent, even if one parent is not a Catholic.
What happens during the Baptism?
The family will gather around the Baptism font, which holds the water used for Baptism. The priest or deacon asks the parents what name they have given to their child and what do they ask for their child and they reply, “Baptism”. Later, the parents make Baptism promises on behalf of their child. These promises are based on the Apostles.
Who can be a godparent?
Accepting the role of godparent for either a child or an adult is both an honour and a responsibility. The term “sponsor” is often used when an adult is being baptised. Godparents promise to be good examples in living the Catholic faith and the values associated with the teachings of Jesus.
Can non-Catholics be Godparents? If not, can we choose not to have Godparents?
It is necessary to have one godparent who is a Catholic. Another Christian person may witness the Baptism along with the Catholic godparent.
Why do we have Baptism Candle?
The candle, lit from the Easter candle, signifies that Christ has enlightened the new believer. In Christ, the baptised are “the light of the world”.
Why does the Baptised wear white?
White is symbolic of innocence. Through Baptism our sins are washed away, and we become ‘clean’ because of Jesus Christ.
Baptism Preparation Meeting
Parents of the eldest child to be baptised have to attend this meeting.
Next meeting will be on Tuesday, 11th February 2025 at 5:30pm in the Parish Seminar Room.
(Catholic Centre, 9-11 Maitland Street, Geraldton)
For booking please contact Parish Office.
Can a person be baptised twice?
It is through the Sacrament of Baptism that we enter into the Christian life. Baptism is the “gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other Sacraments” (Catechism of the Catholic Church #1213). So a person cannot be baptised twice.
How do I arrange to have my child baptised?
Once you have decided to have your child baptised into the Catholic Church please contact the parish office. You will be asked to complete a data collection form and when you return the completed Baptism form, you will be able to book a date which is subject to the availability of the Church and a Priest.
Do I need to do attend any meetings?
If you are baptising your eldest child in the family, the parents have to attend a one off Baptism preparation meeting which is taking place only once in a month in the parish seminar room (beside the parish office) at 9-11 Maitland Street, Geraldton. The meetings usually being conducted on second Tuesday of each month except December and January, at 5:30pm lasting 45 minutes.
Do I need a booking to attend Baptism Preparation Meeting?
Yes, it needs a booking. Please contact the parish office for booking.
Is there a child minding facility available during the meeting?
Unfortunately, we have no child minding facility. Please plan early and arrange someone to look after your child/children while attending the meeting.
I am not a child but wish to be Baptised. Can I?
Yes, you can be Baptised, but the process is different. In order for Baptising an adult, the candidate needs to prepare through RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) program. Please visit the RCIA information page on this website for more details.
Alternatively you may please contact the Parish Office during the office hours.
How can I obtain a copy of my Baptism Certificate?
It is important to keep the original Baptism Certificate as it will be required for future Sacraments and school admissions. However if you lost the original, you can obtain a copy from the parish office by providing all relevant information about the person baptised. There may be a fee for this purpose.
