The Sacraments
Baptism
The door of the sacramental life — a new birth in water and the Spirit.
The Sacrament
What is Baptism?
Baptism is the first and most fundamental of the seven sacraments — the door through which we enter the life of the Church and the whole sacramental journey. Through the pouring of water and the invocation of the Holy Trinity, a person is cleansed of original sin, born again as a child of God, and incorporated as a member of the Body of Christ, the Church.
Baptism is not merely a naming ceremony or a family tradition. It is a real spiritual event — an encounter with the grace of God that leaves a permanent mark on the soul. The early Christians called it “enlightenment”, because in Baptism the light of Christ enters a person's life for the very first time.
At Madonna Ministry, we celebrate Baptisms with great joy. Whether for a newborn infant, an older child, or an adult coming into the faith, we walk with families through a brief but meaningful preparation process to ensure that the sacrament is received with the understanding and faith it deserves.
Image of Baptism ceremony
Photo to be provided
Eligibility
Who is Baptism For?
Infants & Young Children
The Church warmly encourages parents to have their children baptised as soon as possible after birth. Infant Baptism expresses the unconditional love of God, which precedes any response from us. Parents and Godparents make the promises on the child's behalf.
Older Children
Children of school age who have not yet been baptised can be prepared individually alongside their families. The preparation is gentle and age-appropriate, and takes place in conversation with the Parish Priest.
Adults
Adults seeking Baptism are welcomed into the RCIA programme — a journey of faith, prayer, and community that leads to Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion at the Easter Vigil. Please contact us to find out more.
Preparation
Baptism Preparation Programme
For infant and child Baptisms, we ask families to attend one or two preparation sessions led by a member of the parish team. These sessions are warm and informal — not a test or a lecture, but a conversation about faith, family, and the commitment you are making on your child's behalf.
We explore what Baptism means, reflect on the role of parents and Godparents, and walk through the Rite itself so that nothing comes as a surprise on the day. We also discuss practical matters such as the date, venue, and dress.
Duration
1–2 sessions of approx. 90 minutes
When
Evenings — dates announced quarterly
Where
Parish meeting room
Cost
No charge
How to Register
Get in Touch
To register for Baptism preparation, please contact the parish office. We will send you a simple registration form and confirm the next available preparation date. Please aim to get in touch at least six to eight weeks before your preferred Baptism date.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my child be baptised if we don't attend Mass regularly?+
We ask that at least one parent is a baptised Catholic and has a sincere intention to raise the child in the faith. If you have been away from the Church for a while, please do not let that put you off getting in touch — we will walk with you, not judge you. Regular Mass attendance is something we encourage as part of the preparation process.
Who can be Godparents?+
Catholic canon law requires that at least one Godparent is a confirmed Catholic who practises their faith and is at least 16 years old. A second Godparent may be a baptised Christian of another denomination (called a 'Christian witness'). Non-Christians cannot be Godparents. Please discuss any questions about eligibility with the parish.
Can an adult be baptised?+
Absolutely. Adults who wish to become Catholic and be baptised enter the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) — a warm, jargon-free journey of faith preparation. Please contact us for more information. Adult Baptisms normally take place at the Easter Vigil.
Is there a waiting list for the preparation course?+
We run preparation sessions throughout the year. There may be a short wait depending on the time of year. Please register as early as possible — we typically ask for at least six to eight weeks' notice before the desired Baptism date.
What happens at the Baptism itself?+
Baptisms at Madonna Ministry take place on Sundays after the 11:00 am Mass, or within Mass on special occasions. The ceremony lasts approximately 30–45 minutes. The child (or adult) is anointed with oil, the water is poured three times over the head, a white garment is given as a sign of new life, and a candle is lit from the Paschal candle to symbolise Christ's light. It is a deeply moving and joyful occasion.
Ready to Begin?
We would be honoured to welcome your child — or you — into the family of the Church through the waters of Baptism.