Baptisms
"Baptism is seen as the beginning of a life of faith."
Many children get baptised in an Anglican Church as a way of joining God’s family. By bringing a child to baptism, parents are often giving a sign that they encourage the development of their child’s body and soul in partnership with God.
Through baptism, and by joining God’s family, children are beginning life as a Christian and are encouraged to belong, learn and share in a certain way of life.
Of course, many parents also enjoy the opportunity for celebration of new life.
Adults can also be baptised. This may occur when someone turns to God later in life. It is an opportunity to make a public profession of faith and commitment.
Holy Baptism is a sacrament, or an outward sign of an inner reality. In the case of baptism, the outward sign is water in which the person is dipped (or the water is poured on the person’s head) in the name of God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It signifies cleansing from sin (that which prevents us being fully human), death to the old life and rebirth to the new life Christ gives us by his Holy Spirit. We share in the death and resurrection of Jesus and so are made one with him and become members of his body, the church.
In the case of babies being baptised, the parents have the primary responsibility in raising their child in the faith and practice of the church. They promise to bring the child up in the Christian faith and to participate in the life of the Christian community.
Godparents act as sponsors who assist the parents in their role of Christian care and nurture. Specifically, their responsibility means that they:
1. Pray regularly for the child
2. Set him/her an example of Christian living
3. Help him/her to grow in the faith of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, in which he or she was baptised
4. Give every encouragement to the child to follow Christ
5. Help the child look toward confirmation, when he or she will own the promises of baptism for him/herself
Baptisms usually take place at our weekly Sunday services which are:
9.30am St. Thomas' Cardiff
8.00am All Saints Boolaroo
Private Baptisms are also welcome.
There are no fees for baptisms but you are encouraged to make a thanksgiving donation on the day of the baptism service. Baptism is the beginning of a wonderful adventure in life and faith, and we will do all we can to assist you as you share in your child’s spiritual growth.
For further enquiries, please contact us on 02 4956 7344