Baptism
Children's Baptism
Children's initiation begins with the Rite of Baptism for Children. This is often undertaken when the child is an infant, but it can be undertaken at a later stage up to the age of discernment. Special arrangments are made for children who are older than the normal age for children's confirmation and first communion (school year 3) but not yet reached the age of discernment.
Baptisms are on Sundays at 12nn on the 2nd Sunday of the month at Northbridge and the 4th Sunday of the month at Naremburn. Baptisms can also be included in the community Sunday Mass, by arrangement with the Parish Priest.
The initial preparation of the parents for baptism is undertaken by the Parish Priest. The parish offers ongoing support to parents during the intervening years between baptism and the other sacraments of initiation. Contact the parish office on 9438 1011 for further enquiries.
Click here for an enrolment form for children's baptism. If you are new to the parish, or haven't previously registered your family details with the parish, you will also need to click here to complete the Parishioner Information Form.
Adult Christian Initiation
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the initiation process for adults, and for children who have reached the age of discernment. The RCIA preparation process varies depending on circumstances including your age, whether you have previously been baptised, and previously education in the Catholic faith. The sacraments are celebrated each year at the Easter vigil.
For those who for various reasons missed out on the sacrament of confirmation, adult confirmation is also offered each year on Pentecost Sunday at Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral at Waitara.
The Rite of Christian Initation of Adults provides for all sacraments of initiation into the Catholic Church for adults and children who have reached the age of discernment.
Come and See
When you are called to discipleship of Jesus you come with your own unique life experience: your family and friends, your work and recreation, your hopes and hurts, your personal faith and uncertainties. You may have some connection with the Catholic Church through your family or friends. You may have even been coming to Mass for many years sharing in the faith journjey of a spouse, fiance or child.
Whatever it may be that is calling you to explore a journey of faith with Catholics, you bring your own story to the story of the Church. Whatever your background and circumstance you are welcomed and valued.
As such the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a journey of faith with Catholics who are members of this parish community, and with other men and women who are also exploring whether the Catholic faith is right for them. The journey is one of a conversation with others on the same journey, as you search to deepen your relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Each person's journey is unique: some may journey for 2-3 or more years before making the decision, others may take only a few months. For some, it is their first experience of Christian initiation, while others have already been baptised and now wish to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church.
If you hear God's call and are looking for ways to respond; if you have ever wondered what might be involved in becoming a Christian or being received into full communion with the Catholic Church, call Paul Mason, Pastoral Associate, on 0414 436 017.