Welcoming New Members to Our Faith Community

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the world.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213)

Baptism is the first sacrament. It incorporates us into the Church and through it, we are ‘reborn’ as daughters and sons of God. Baptism is performed by the pouring of water and 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. You will need to meet with Father Dariusz and attend the Baptism preparation session. Download the Baptism application form and email it to the Parish office. The child and family will be introduced to the community at a Mass prior to the celebration of the Sacrament.

Signs and Symbolism of Baptism

• Water

  This is for cleansing and is a sign that our sins are washed away. Baptism cleanses us of original sin with which we are all born and, in the baptism of adults, of every sin committed prior to baptism. Water is also necessary for life and so is a sign, too, that the life of the risen Christ is ours.

• Sign of the cross

  A sign on something shows its origin and ownership. The sign of the cross is the mark of Christians for Jesus Christ died on the cross. Parents and godparents trace it on the child’s forehead to show that the baby belongs to Christ, who now offers his help and grace to face and overcome the sufferings of life.

• Oil of Baptism / Chrism

  The Oil of Baptism is olive oil rubbed on the breast of the baby, just as athletes used to rub themselves with oil to strengthen and prepare for the fight ahead. The Oil of Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam (sweet-smelling ointment) and is rubbed on the crown of the head. It is a sign of sealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The profession of faith which you make on behalf of your child at baptism will later be confirmed personally by your child in the sacrament of confirmation when the Oil of Chrism will be used again. The oils are blessed during holy week by the bishop in St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney, Australia.

• White Chrism

  This garment recalls the new clothes worn by Christians after baptism in the first centuries. It is a sign of innocence and the new life of resurrection.

• Baptismal candle

  Symbolizes Christ — the Light of the World. The baptismal candle is lit from the paschal candle, which stands near the altar 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; and its flame symbolizes the flame of faith which will burn through the life of the child.

• Baptismal Register

  Your baby’s baptism will be recorded in the parish Baptismal Register. In the years ahead proof of baptism may be obtained in the form of a certificate issued on the basis of this registration. Your child’s confirmation, marriage or ordination will also be noted alongside this entry in the register.

• What is the regular mass timetable?

Please click on the link HERE to find answers to some questions about Baptism.

Please contact the Parish Office to learn more or email