Sacrament of Baptism
Welcome to St Bernard’s for the baptism of your child – new life in Christ.
Your child has been welcomed into your family – now you have chosen to present him/her for baptism. Just as you nurture physical and emotional growth, in asking for baptism you are accepting responsibility for the growth and development of your child’s faith and understanding of God’s love.
Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation into the Catholic faith and takes place within a community.
As an indicator of the dignity and value you place on the sacrament, you are strongly encouraged to celebrate the sacrament in your child’s first years.
Baptisms are celebrated at 12 noon on some Sundays, or during a weekend Mass, if desired.
The first part of the ceremony – ‘naming & welcome’ would usually be done at a Parish Mass, a week before the baptism. For the moment, this will take place at the start of the baptism ceremony.
Ordinarily, an important part of the preparation, is gathering parents for an Information Evening. This gives you the opportunity to meet one another, especially those who will be sharing the special day.
At the moment, for the safety of all, information is being emailed to each family. You are asked to read it carefully, reflect and respond to some questions.
Godparents are very special people in your life and that of your child. Choose them carefully because you will need encouragement and help as a Christian parent. In addition, your child will benefit from an enriching relationship, with people who share your ideals.
godparents must be at least 16 years old.
one godparent is sufficient, but you may choose more.
at least one of the godparents must be a baptised Catholic, who has received Communion and been Confirmed.
a non-Catholic may act as a witness, along with a Catholic godparent.
Stole: The Parish provides a short stole, which will be here for you on the baptism day. However, you are most welcome to make your own, or purchase one custom-made from Gracious Glyphs (our recommended supplier). Their stoles are longer and will be used again for subsequent sacraments. You can read further details about the stoles by clicking the button below.
Candle: Provided for each child. Again, you are most welcome to bring your own, if desired.
Certificate: This document is a copy of the Baptism Register record. It correctly includes the mother's maiden surname. Please keep it in a safe place – it will be required later on, if your child wishes to attend Catholic primary or secondary schools.
Cost: A donation towards costs would be appreciated. The usual gift is $100, or $150 for two or more children. Payment options will be detailed in the email confirming your booking.
If you live in another parish, you are encouraged to consider celebrating the baptism in that community, where your child may be attending school & receiving other sacraments in the future. If you do decide to come to St Bernard’s, please request a permission letter from your local parish. This is a courtesy all priests extend to one another.
Parents are the first and most significant teachers in all things, including faith. Your example of commitment & involvement in the Church will always be the most influential for your child. Baptism is the public beginning.
Booking enquiries are welcome. Families who live within the Parish boundaries (Belmont, Highton, Wandana Heights, Ceres, Moriac & surrounding areas) are invited to complete an Enquiry Form, by clicking on the ‘button’ below.
You may also contact our Baptism Coordinator by emailing directly to : belmont@cam.org.au
Mark the email : ‘Attention Jan - Baptism Enquiry’, or phone 52 432 739 to leave a message. Jan will reply when she is in the Office every Tuesday morning.
The next available dates may be six or more months ahead.