Baptism

Sacraments – Baptism

Baptism is the first sacrament of the initiation process with God and the Church. Through Baptism, we are freed from original sin and reborn as children of God.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19-20).

“And this water symbolises baptism that now saves you also; not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience towards God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 3:21)

Baptism is birth into the new life in Christ (CCC 1277) from which the entire Christian life springs forth. 

The rite of baptism (being immersed in water or having water poured over their head) symbolizes the catechumen’s burial into Christ’s death, from which they rise up by resurrection with him, as “a new creature” (CCC 1214). The person baptized is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ, and made a sharer in the priesthood of Christ (CCC 1279).

In Baptism all sins are forgiven, … nothing remains that would impede their entry into the Kingdom of God” (CCC 1263). However, preparation for Baptism leads only to the threshold, the frailties inherent in our humanity remain, whether that be suffering, illness, death or frailties such as weakness of character or inclination to sin. It is therefore important to continue to grow in the faith, supported and sustained within the community of believers, the Church (CCC 1254).  

Whoever has not been baptized can be baptized.  The practice of baptizing children is an age-old tradition to grant the children the “priceless grace of becoming a child of God” (CCC 1250). Encouraging the spiritual growth of their children and their integration in the faith community of the Church is part of the nurturing process of being a Christian parent.  The whole Church community bears some responsibility for the development and safeguarding of the grace given at Baptism (CCC 1255).

Other people request baptism as adults. Through the Rite of Christian Initiation as Adults (RCIA) they are introduced into the life of faith, liturgy and charity of the Church (CCC 1248). At present the RCIA preparation is kindly given by the community at Madonna House in conjunction with the parish. In 2023 we have 6 people preparing to be received into the Church.

In our parish please contact Fr. Pat Keogh for more information.