Baptism
What is baptism?
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, 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." Roman Catechism II,2,5
Further Information
Baptisms of infants and small children are celebrated at St Patrick's on the 1st & 3rd Sundays at 11.30am. There are no Baptisms in Lent (save in emergencies). Parents bringing their first child for Baptism are asked to attend a preparation meeting, as the child will be baptised into the faith of his/her parents. The Godparents must also be practicing Catholics.
Youth or adults declare their faith for themselves, so are required to have some preparation in the faith, either in private or with a group.
Please contact the parish for further information.
In an emergency, it is good to remember that,
“In case of necessity, any person can baptize provided that he have the intention of doing that which the Church does and provided that he pours water on the candidate's head while saying: "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.", Catechism of the Catholic Church 1284
