Baptism

Baptism is the first sacrament of Christian initiation. Through baptism we are freed from the darkness of our world, we become sons and daughters of God and are embraced into the family of the Church. Catholic families are encouraged to baptise their children soon after birth, however sometimes people are baptised later, or even as adults.

 

Reception

Baptism is celebrated only once in a person's life. If a baptized Christian from another denomination wishes to become a Catholic, he or she is not re-baptised but rather is received into communion with the Catholic Church through a simple ceremony of commitment, followed by the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.

 

Infant Baptism

Infant baptisms are scheduled at Our Lady of Dolours Parish usually twice a month. At Our Lady of Dolours Parish, there are three steps in the celebration of infant baptism.
• An information session held on a Saturday at 4pm in the parish meeting rooms.
• A presentation of your child at one of the Sunday Masses where he/she is welcomed by the community.
• The baptism which is held either at one of the Sunday Masses or on a Sunday afternoon at 12.30 pm (without Mass). You choose which option suits best.

To enrol your baby for baptism, please complete Infant Baptism Form and return the completed form to the parish office as soon as possible. Someone from the parish will then contact you to confirm the time and arrangements.

For more information, you can download the Infant Baptism Brochure and Baptism Dates.

 

Kids' Baptism (5-11 years)

Baptisms for children aged 5-11 are usually scheduled quarterly (or at other times by arrangement). The children prepare via their own special process which is built around the 9am Family Mass on Sundays. It includes "Kids' Baptism" sessions on the first Sunday of the month. Typically this process takes 10 weeks. Click here for current program.

To enrol your child for baptism, please complete Kids' Baptism Enrolment Form and return the completed form to the parish office. Someone from the parish will contact you to confirm details.  

For more information, you can download the Kids' Baptism Information Brochure or contact Teresa 9410 9027.

 

Adult Baptism

Adult baptisms usually take place at Easter, although they can take place at other times of the year too. Adults preparing for baptism have their own process of learning and growing in faith. This is the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults(R.C.I.A.) It is a flexible process which typically takes 6-12 months.

For more information, you can download the Adult Baptism Brochure