Baptism services on requestBaptism is the gift of our Lord Jesus Christ. It marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God’s love. For all involved it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ. Family, friends and the wider community of the Church gather in welcome, promising support and prayer for the future.
Please contact the Parish Office at least one month before the date that you wish to have the Service of Baptism, so as to enable time for Baptism Preparation. The adjacent Baptism pamphlet provides the application form. Parish Office on - 03 5282 6487 Parish Office email: - [email protected] |
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The meaning of Baptism
The word 'baptism' comes from the Greek word meaning to dip or immerse in water. Jesus began his preaching and healing ministry by being baptised in the River Jordan. The vast majority of his followers over the two thousand years since then have begun their Christian lives with baptism.
In the Anglican Church many people are baptised when they are babies. However, when people come to know Jesus as adults they can also be baptised as believers. Baptism is recognised by all Christian denominations and is a once-and-for-all sacrament.
In the Anglican Church many people are baptised when they are babies. However, when people come to know Jesus as adults they can also be baptised as believers. Baptism is recognised by all Christian denominations and is a once-and-for-all sacrament.
Godparent/Sponsor
One of the duties as a godparent or sponsor (for adult baptism) is to be an official witness at the baptism. A godparent or sponsor is someone who is likely to remain in close touch with the child and family during formative years; a person to guide, admire and emulate. To benefit from their baptism, a child's new relationship with God needs to be developed. As they grow physically, mentally and emotionally they need to grow spiritually too. Godparents should play a significant role in the life of their godchild.
They have the privilege of helping develop the spiritual life of the child as he or she grows to adolescence and adulthood. At the baptism ceremony the parents and godparents give a commitment to see to the child’s ‘upbringing in the church.’ The Anglican Church requires that godparents should be baptized themselves because they are called to support the baptized person in growing as a Christian.
They have the privilege of helping develop the spiritual life of the child as he or she grows to adolescence and adulthood. At the baptism ceremony the parents and godparents give a commitment to see to the child’s ‘upbringing in the church.’ The Anglican Church requires that godparents should be baptized themselves because they are called to support the baptized person in growing as a Christian.
The signs and symbolism of baptism
Water
This is for cleansing and is a sign that our sins are washed away. It is also a sign of new birth. Water is necessary for life and is a sign, too, that the life of the crucified and risen Christ is ours.
Sign of the cross
A sign on something shows its origins or ownership. The sign of the cross is the mark of Christians because Jesus Christ died on the cross. The minister traces it on the child’s forehead to show that the baby belongs to Christ.
Oil
Oil of Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam (sweet smelling ointment) and may be rubbed or poured on the crown of the head. It is a sign of the pouring out of God’s love and the sealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The oil is blessed by the bishop during Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter Day.
Candles
These symbolise Christ—the Light of the World. The baptismal candle is lit from the paschal candle, which stands alight at Easter as a sign of the risen Christ. The baptismal candle reminds us that the light of Christ has entered the child’s life. Its flame symbolises the flame of faith which will burn throughout the life of your child.
Baptismal Register:
Each baptism will be recorded in the Baptismal Register of the Parish, and you and each of the godparent will be given a Certificate. In the years ahead proof of baptism may be obtained by producing this Certificate, or having a certificate issued on the basis of this Registration.
