THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

The Baptism of children

Baptism is not simply a "naming ceremony" or even just a blessing for a new baby. It is the beginning of the Christian life and the gateway to eternal life. Because of this, the Sacrament of Baptism is taken very seriously in the Church.

A Sacrament  

We believe that Baptism is a Sacrament, an action of Jesus Christ in his Church. A Sacrament is an outward sign of inward grace, instituted by Jesus Christ. By the carrying out of the sacramental rite, grace is given to the soul of the person who received the Sacrament.

In this Sacrament, Jesus Christ

• forgives original sin and opens the gates of Heaven for us
• welcomes us into his Church
• makes us the sons and daughters of God  

Your duties 

The ceremony of Baptism assumes a well-founded hope that you will bring your child up in the practice of the Faith. This means

• you teach your child to pray
• you teach your child to lead a good Christian life
• you come to Mass on Sundays
• you teach your child the Catholic Faith  

Baptisms at Bl. Edmund Sykes

Baptisms can take place in either St. Nicholas’ Church or Our Lady of Good Counsel.  If you would like your child to be baptised, please speak to Fr. McGillycuddy after Sunday Mass.

 Fees

In the Catholic Church in England, there is no fee for the Baptism. If you can afford to do so, you should make an offering. You can give this in an envelope to the priest or deacon at the time of the Baptism. If you cannot afford anything, it does not matter and nobody will be offended.

What does the Church Teach?