Information on Baptisms
Baptism is the welcoming of a person into the Church community. Through the waters of Baptism the person enters into the life of God–Father, Son and Spirit. He or she is dedicated to God and all that is good.
Adult Baptism
For adult Baptism, there is a specific program of preparation available. Please ask the Parish Priest for more details.
Newmarket & Taur Parish Baptism Team
The Parish Baptism Team helps the parish to reach out to families presenting children for Baptism by helping them appreciate the meaning of the rite and by representing the parishioners at the ceremony.
Support includes:
- An introduction to the baptismal ceremony
- Organisation of participation in readings and prayers at the baptism
- Checklist for the family for the baptism ceremony.
Godparents
In the early church the godparents were sponsors who taught the new Christian, usually an adult, about the faith. Later on when infant baptism became usual the godparents often took the role of guardians of the child if anything happened to the parents. Something of these two roles remains today.
Choose godparents who are likely to be around and have an interest in your child over the years. It is good if the godparents can be adult Catholics who will take an interest in your baby as he or she grows up.
Signs and Symbols of Baptism
WATER
Water is necessary for life and for cleansing. The baby is baptised with the water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. The baby’s Christian name is given officially.
The parents and godparents bring the baby to the font for Baptism. The baby is held over the font. The water of Baptism is poured over the baby’s head by the priest.
The parish celebrates and welcomes this new life and commits to share together with the family in the journey of faith.
SIGN OF THE CROSS
The Sign of the Cross is the mark of Christians. Priests, parents and godparents trace the cross on the baby’s forehead.
HOLY OILS
The baby is anointed with Holy Oils on the breast and on the crown of the head to strengthen them for life and as a sign of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
WHITE SHAWL
The baby is wrapped in a white shawl as a sign of innocence and of the dignity of sharing with Christ’s life.
BAPTISMAL CANDLE
The baptismal candle is lit from the Easter candle. It reminds us that the light of Christ has entered the child’s life. Parents and godparents and the Parish community commit to keep the flame of faith alive.
