This is the first sacrament that we receive on the Christian journey and is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation, along with Penance and Confirmation.
In baptism we become
- A child of the Father,
- A brother/sister of Jesus Christ,
- A temple of the Holy Spirit,
- A member of God’s family – the Church.
Parents request baptism for their child and an important question for them is, Why? Why do we want our child baptised? People’s reasons are many and varied…..because it is what everyone else does…..someone else in the family wants it ….. as a type of insurance policy, just in case something happens ….. as believers, we see baptism as a significant first step on our child’s faith journey.
The Liturgy of Baptism comprises of four parts:
- The reception of the Child – meeting the child at the door, welcoming and receiving the one to be baptised into, not just the church building but into the Family of God, the Body of Christ.
- At the Book – Scripture is read from the Ambo. The word of God is proclaimed to help us all experience a living God. As a community we are called to listen, as without listening, there is no living word. The word gives meaning and direction to our lives.
- At the Font – water is blessed to be used in the Baptism. Water gives nourishment, it is the source of life. The Sacrament of Baptism marks our receiving the gift of new life from God.
- At the Altar – the lighted baptismal candle is carried for the child and the journey from font to altar is the child’s first following Christ. Gathering at the altar reminds us that this is where we gather for Eucharist.
Baptism Dates and Arrangements
In our parish, baptism is celebrated on the first Saturday of each month at 4.00pm. On any date that the priest is unavailable, baptisms take place on the first Sunday at 1.00pm.
While some parents desire to have their child christened in their native parish, it is preferable and encouraged that baptism should take place in the parish where the child resides. Please contact the parish office on botha@clogherparishes.ie or 028 68641889 to book a baptism.
The Diocese of Clogher stipulates that a child’s Godparents must be;
- at least 16 years of age.
- a Catholic who is baptised, confirmed and has received the Eucharist.
- one who “lives a life of faith which befits the role to be undertaken”.
When there are two Godparents, there must be one male and one female. If two people of the same gender are nominated by the parents, only one is registered as a sponsor, the other is a witness. A baptised non-Catholic may participate in the ceremony as a witness, not as a Godparent.