Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua),4 and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.”5 CCC1215:- This sacrament is also called “the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit,” for it signifies and actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one “can enter the kingdom of God.”7 CCC1216:- “This bath is called enlightenment, because those who receive this [catechetical] instruction are enlightened in their understanding . . . .”8 Having received in Baptism the Word, “the true light that enlightens every man,” the person baptized has been “enlightened,” he becomes a “son of light,” indeed, he becomes “light” himself:9
Baptism is God’s most beautiful and magnificent gift. . . .We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God’s Lordship.10
Baptism of Infants (Pre-Baptism Catechesis)
The pre-baptism team was set up to prepare new parents for the sacrament of their child’s baptism. It has been made mandatory, because of the high importance placed on building family faith. The preparatory course not only focuses on the religious significance of the sacrament, but also extends to imparting tools for parents to bring up their children firm in the catholic faith.
The four-module course talks about adapting to the changes that married life brings with it, faith formation within the family, the role of god-parenting and the rites of baptism. This is a four hour course conducted over two days every two months. We advise that both parents along with the godparents attend this course during the early stages of pregnancy to avoid any inconvenience to the mothers-to-be. Announcements regarding the same are done in the church. For further details kindly contact / visit the parish office.
PRACTICE IN THE PARISH
- Baptism’s are conducted in the church after the 10:00 am mass on Sundays.
Guidelines for the Sacrament of Baptism:
POINTERS FOR CHOOSING A GODPARENT FOR YOUR CHILD
Should we make a relative or a friend or someone else? Should we make 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 is
- He / She should have received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Eucharist & Confirmation.
- The godparent should be at least 16 years of age.
- The parents cannot become the godparents of their child.
The Godparent should be someone who:-
- Is a practicing Catholic with a deep faith
- Knows Catholic doctrines & understands the Sacrament of Baptism.
- Can be trusted to maintain a long term relationship with the child.
- Enjoys patience & can relate to a child.
- Enjoys stability in his/her life.
- Has a high moral character.
- Would be an exemplary role model for the child.
The sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on every Sunday after the 10:00 a.m. Mass. Those who wish to have their child baptized are required to attend the pre-baptism course prior to baptism. They would also need to ensure that the godparents chosen for the child are catholic who have received Baptism, Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist.
