Baptism is a religious family event that marks the child’s entrance into the Christian community.
What are the steps to go through to have your child baptised ? How should you prepare for it ? How does the ceremony unfold ?
All your questions about religious Baptism are answered here.
Baptism, a religious milestone
Baptism is the first of the three initiatory Sacraments of the Christian faith, and is followed by the Eucharist (first Communion) and Confirmation.
The word “Baptism” is derived from the Greek term “baptein” which means “immerse, submerge in water”.
In early Christian times, the Sacrament of Baptism consisted of totally immersing the body in water, following the example of Jesus, who was baptised in the Jordan River by John, later known as John the Baptist.
Water is a purifying element that symbolises a renewal of life. Baptism marks the beginning of the development of faith and is a Sacrament of faith in God.
Who can be baptised ?
Anyone – child or adult – can be baptised. However, in order for an adult to access this Sacrament in the Catholic faith, they must attend Catechism classes.
Parents may also choose to have their newborn christened, a way of committing to raising the child in the Christian faith and values.
THE ROLE OF THE GODPARENTS
The person being baptised is accompanied by a godfather and godmother who witness the Sacrament of Baptism and vow to uphold the development of faith throughout the child’s lifetime.
The godparents attend all the important events, religious and secular alike. They maintain a special connection with the child and become essential figures of their entourage, since they may be relied upon without fail.
AT WHAT AGE SHOULD YOU HAVE YOUR CHILD BAPTISED ?
Theoretically, there is no official age for a Baptism, but traditionally, it takes place during a child’s first year of life.
In the Middle Ages, newborns were christened very soon after their birth for fear that they would not otherwise be admitted to heaven if they died.
WHERE SHOULD YOU HAVE YOUR CHILD BAPTISED ?
Customarily, the ceremony is held in the parish of the parents’ home.
To have a child baptised in a different church of their choice, the parents must request a dispensation from the priests of their parish and the preferred parish.
HOW DOES THE BAPTISMAL CEREMONY UNFOLD ?
The ceremony takes place during Mass, traditionally on Whit Sunday, between Easter and Pentecost. The ritual is based on five main pillars :
The sign of the cross : the gesture is made on the child’s forehead, granting them admission into the church for the celebration
Holy water : sprinkled onto the child’s forehead as the priest utters the words, “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Holy Chrism : the child is anointed with consecrated oil to bind them to eternal life.
A white garment : placed on the child once the other steps are completed to symbolise rebirth and purity.
Light : an altar candle is given to the parents and godparents, symbolising their commitment to uphold the flame of faith and Christian life.
At the end of the ceremony, the godparents sign the baptism registers.
AND AFTER THE CEREMONY ?
It is always a delight to gather for a special meal to celebrate this joyful occasion with family and loved ones. To commemorate the event, a number of gifts are given to the child, in particular a Baptism medal.
Traditionally, the godfather provides the chain, and the godmother chooses the medal. The child will wear this symbolic piece of jewellery throughout their life !
