Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation. It involves ritual washing with water. Water is commonly known as a symbol of life and cleansing – that’s what it means in Baptism too. Water is poured over a person’s head (or the person can be immersed in water). This action is a symbol of washing away Original Sin, rising to new life in Christ and marks the beginning of a person’s participation in the mission of the Church.
While many people are baptised as young children, adult baptisms regularly take place across Brisbane archdiocese. If you are interested in baptising your child or being baptised yourself, please get in touch with your local parish or church community.
What do I need to do if I want to have my child baptised?
To start the process to have a child baptised you will need to contact us on (07) 3362 8765 or by registering (step 1) and submitting an enquiry (step 2) using the links below. Parents are usually asked to take part in a preparation program to enable them to understand the sacrament and the commitment they will make to support their child’s growth in faith and life. Sacramental preparation for the Baptism focusses on God’s grace and welcoming the child to life in the Spirit. It takes up the parent’s request for Baptism and offers them support in raising their child in the midst of the Church family.
What is Baptism?
Baptism is the first of three Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church, the other two being Confirmation and Eucharist. Through Baptism we are incorporated into the body of Christ.
Baptism is celebrated by immersion or the pouring of water with the words“I baptise you in the name of the Father,and of the Son,and of the Holy Spirit”.
Parents who ask to have their children baptised accept the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith and bringing them up to keep God’s commandments.
Symbols used in Baptism
Water
Water is the central symbol of Baptism. Because water is essential to all life, the water of Baptism symbolises the life-giving grace that sustains those who have become children of God.
White Garment
The white garment with which the newly baptised is clothed symbolises their new life in Christ.
Candle / Light
A baptismal candle is lit from the paschal candle and presented to the new member as a sign of the light of Christ.d.
Oil of Catechumens & Oil of Chrism
Oil is used twice in the ceremony. Before the Baptism, the child’s breast is anointed with the Oil of Catechumens as a sign of healing and strengthening.
After Baptism, the crown of the head is smeared with the Oil of Chrism as a symbol of joy and thanksgiving.
The Assembly
The assembled community at Baptism is a symbol of welcome and represents the community of Christ into which the baptised will be incorporated.
The Word of God
The scriptures are always proclaimed at a baptismal liturgy. Jesus is present in the proclamation of the word, calling the gathered community to be disciples. We are reminded that the Christian story is a living story, carrying on throughout the generations and continues through each baptised person.
The Sign of the Cross
The Sign of the Cross is the mark of Christians leading us into the full story of the Paschal Mystery – life, suffering, death and Resurrection.
Parents and godparents trace the cross as a sign that we are claimed by the One who has created us, and who came among us in Jesus, and who continues to journey with us in the Spirit, and who will welcome us home in the life to come.
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