Our Lady Star of the Sea | St Bernard of Clairvaux | St Saviour
Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments – CCC 1213.
The first sacrament of initiation, through which we are welcomed into the Church and cleansed of sin, the beginning of our life in Christ. Baptism is an important event in the life of your family; it is also a very important and joyful event in the life of the Church and we look forward to accompanying you on this journey.
What to expect when your child is baptised in our parish
1. Attend Mass regularly.
2. Register interest for Baptism by filling in the form online or picking one up from the office. (Please note that a date for Baptism will only be confirmed once stages 1–5 have been completed.)
3. Meet with clergy after Mass.
4. A period of preparation.
5. A second form is received during the period of preparation, which should be completed and returned to the parish office, pending approval.
6. Paperwork is processed; the date of Baptism is confirmed and communicated to the family.
7. The family attends Holy Mass on the day of your child’s Baptism. You will be invited at the end of Mass to come forward for the parish community to welcome and pray for your family.
8. Your child’s Baptism then takes place immediately after Mass.
9. Presentation of the certificate takes place the following weekend at Mass, with congratulations from the parish family.
10. Regular Mass attendance and parish participation continue after your child’s Baptism.