What is Baptism?

The Sacrament of Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, making us sons and daughters of God and members of the Body of Christ.  Through Baptism, we are welcomed into the Catholic Church, the community of faith.  When we are baptised, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us.  Baptism enables us to receive the other sacraments and grow in the life of the Risen Christ.

The Sacrament of Baptism is often called “the door of the Church” because it is the first of the seven sacraments – namely:  Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation, Holy Matrimony, Holy Orders, and the Anointing of the Sick.  The reception of all other sacraments depends on it.

Many Catholics receive this sacrament as infants.  Before infants are baptised, the parents and the godparents receive preparation for their child’s sacramental faith journey.

In asking to have their child baptised, parents and godparents assume the privilege and responsibility of raising their children to live the Catholic faith.  The parishes of St Bernard’s and Saint Anthony’s are here to support families with the information, resources and encouragement that is needed in order to raise a child in the faith. 

When is Baptism offered?

The Sacrament of Baptism is offered at 11.00am on the first and third Saturdays of the month at St Anthony’s Church, Melton South and second and fourth Saturdays at St Bernard’s Church, Bacchus Marsh.  It is preferable that we have two months’ notice before a Baptism.  To book a date for the Baptism of your child, contact the Parish Office.

Godparents

Godparents form a spiritual relationship with their godchildren through Baptism.  Therefore, choosing godparents is an important step in planning a baptism.  Great consideration should be given as to who may be able to take on this great honour but a huge responsibility.  Although it would be wonderful to offer this honour to your best friend, if he or she doesn’t share your religious beliefs or does not meet the qualifications set by the Catholic Church, they shouldn’t be your baby’s godparent.  It’s vital to choose godparents who are practising Catholics, since their role is to help your child live a devout Christian life.  A praying godparent would pray regularly for their godchild, and a godparent who practices his or her faith will be an admirable witness for their godchild helping guide them by example to the person of Jesus.

 During the ceremony, godparents make solemn promises before God and the Church to honour their own Baptism and the teachings of the Catholic Church.  Your child may have a maximum of two godparents (one male and one female).  Godparents must be baptised practising Catholics.  As long as there is one Catholic godparent, a person baptised in another Christian Church may be permitted to act as a Christian Witness in place of the second godparent.  Non-Christian persons cannot be godparents.