Parish Baptismal Policy
Sacrament of Baptism (for babies)
Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation. It is a celebration of belonging to your local parish faith community and through it to the wider Church.
Baptisms are celebrated on the second Sunday of the month (except for Easter month) for up to four families. Please see parish calendar. We need three months advance notice.
You may fill out and return the St Anne’s Parish Baptism Application Form to our office. Normally we allow a minimum of 3-4 weeks to accommodate your baptism as availability is subject to prior bookings and our waiting list.
Parents of the child must have participated Baptism preparation session prior to the baptism. See below for the dates of preparation evenings/mornings. A stole is required to be worn for the Sacrament, however if you have your own already purchased please advise our Baptism Coordinator. Other details will be informed at the preparation evening.
If you wish to request a Permission letter to have your child baptised in another parish, please contact the Parish Office. There is an administration fee of $20.00 to do so if you do not regularly attend at our Parish. The permission form and a credit card slip may be emailed to the Parish Office via seaford@cam.org.au. Alternatively this can be paid via cash at our Parish Office during business hours.
Symbols of Baptism
The 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 is a sign of being cleansed.
The White Garment
This garment, or stole, is a relic of the new clothes worn by Christians after baptism in the first centuries. It is a sign of innocence and the new life of resurrection.
The Oils
Are a sign of sealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to confer the strength and power of the Holy Spirit.
The Candle
The candle is to symbolise Christ who is the light of the world. The baptism candle reminds us that the light of Christ has entered the child’s life, and its flame of faith which will burn through the life of the child.
The Sign of the Cross
To show that the baby belongs to Christ who now offers his help and grace to face and overcome the sufferings of life.
For further information on choosing your godparents – CHOOSING A GODPARENT.
From the St. Anne’s Baptismal Team
