Baptism

Baptism or Christening (they both mean the same) is the way that new members are welcomed into the church. It takes the form of being sprinkled with water three times, to signify that the person believes in God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. 

Baptism is about washing. If we are dirty we would have a bath or a shower to wash the grime away. And so when we are baptised, we wash away those sins which separate us from God. That is not to say that we never sin again, we do not become perfect, but baptism is a first and important step along the road! 

People are baptised either when they are babies or as adults. Baptism is a special sign of God’s love for us, through which Christians start their lifelong journey of faith. All Christians have to be baptized. It also makes us special, because when we are baptized we become like Jesus, and a member of his family taking his name. That is what being a Christian means.

If you would like to have your baby baptised, or to be baptised yourself, you need to come along to the Sunday Parish Mass, where you will be given the information you need about our Baptism preparation. 

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Confirmation

Confirmation takes place after Baptism, when the person publicly declares their belief and intention to live as a Christian. For those who were Christened as children or babies, Confirmation is the opportunity literally to confirm the vows that were said on their behalf by their Parents and Godparents. For those who have never been baptized, their Confirmation and Baptism happen in the same service.

Confirmation usually follows a period of preparation and classes which teach more about the Christian faith and how we should live as Christian. When the person is ready to be Confrimed, they are presented to the Bishop who lays hands on them.

To find out more about Baptism and Confirmation, 
come along to church on a Sunday morning.

Do you believe and trust in God the Father source of all being, the one for whom we exist?
I believe and trust in him.

 Do you believe and trust in God the Son, who took our human nature, died for us and rose again?
I believe and trust in him.

Do you believe and trust in God the Holy Spirit, who gives life to the people of God and makes Christ known in the world?
I believe and trust in him.

I believe and trust in one God, Father, Son and 
Holy Spirit.