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 & 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. When : Baptisms are celebrated : • during any of the weekend masses – 6.30pm Saturday evening, 9am or 10.30am on Sunday morning • during a baptism ceremony at 12 noon on some Sundays, with other families. For parents : You are invited to attend a gathering a few weeks before the baptism, to meet other families and become familiar with the ceremony & symbols used. Welcome : 12 noon baptism – the family is invited to come to mass a week or two before the baptism, to present the child to be welcomed into the church community. The baptism ceremony follows a week or two later. Where the baptism is during mass – welcome & baptism are celebrated at the same mass. Godparents : 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 14 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 - For infants – the Ladies Auxilary sew a bib style, or you are most welcome to make your own. Older children – purchase ribbon, fringe & symbols to make the stole, or purchase one custom made from a local supplier. This (sash) stole is also used for Penance, Eucharist & Confirmation. 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. It will be required later on for entry to Catholic primary & secondary schools. Cost - a donation of $50 would be appreciated, at the Parent’s Night if possible. Contact : Baptism Preparation co-ordinator – Helen Brislane is at the Office every Friday. Phone any time & leave a number where you can be contacted during Friday office hours, or email : helen.brislane@cam.org.au It is recommended you phone two to three months ahead to book. 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. |