BAPTISM

Christian initiation is accomplished by three sacraments together: Baptism which is the beginning of new life; Confirmation which is its strengthening; and the Eucharist which nourishes the disciple with Christ’s Body and Blood for his transformation in Christ.
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1275)

BAPTISM

Infant Children

Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation.

In the waters of baptism we are initiated in the Church as children of God and commissioned to live as Christ’s followers.   Anointed by the Spirit, we are cleansed from sin and begin new life in Christ.

Baptism usually takes place at 11:30am on Sundays. All enquiries regarding details, booking dates, pre-baptismal information class and requirements can be made through Parish Office.  All Baptism bookings can be made after the completion of the Baptism Application Form which can be found in the church foyer, on the website or will be provided to you during the pre-baptismal class.  Attendance is required to a compulsory pre-baptism class, which takes place usually on the third Saturday of each month at 11:00am in the Church.  Check Parish Bulletin for more details or call the Parish Office on Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday between 9:30am to 2:30pm.

Essential Items to Bring on the day of Baptism

  • A White Garment: This symbolises purity and the new life in Christ (white christening gown/dress, white shirt/shorts, or a simple white stole or bib to place over the child).
  • A Baptismal Candle: Parents are to provide a pillar candle (can be  decorated with the child’s name and date of Baptism) to be lit from the Paschal (Easter) candle during the ceremony.
  • White Towel: To gently dry the baby after the water is poured.

 

Regarding sponsors (godparents) for Baptism:

​A godparent (Canon Law no. 872-874):

  • Every baptized person must have at least one godparent.

  • must be at least 16 years of age.

  • must be fully initiated Catholic (one who has celebrated Baptism, Eucharistic, Confirmation and practices his/her faith).

  • should be willing to accept the responsibility of assisting the parents in developing the faith life of the child.

  • may not be the father or the mother of the one to be baptized.

Godparents are not required to be present on the day of the Baptism.  A Godparent may be represented by a proxy.​

 

​Baptismal Form is also available in the Church foyer or on this site (RESOURCES/Bulletins, Forms & Letters).

Baptism for school aged children

Enquiries to be made through Parish Religious Education Program (PREP), contact: Tammy prep.clarkson@perthcatholic.org.au

Baptism of Adults

Enquiries to be made through RCIA Program.