Congratulations on the birth of your child, and on the step you are making in considering Catholic Baptism. God’s love for all children is made explicit in Baptism.
Your decision to have your child baptised is an important one. Please think carefully about the commitment you are making when your child is baptised - that you personally (not a Catholic school, not your parents) will teach and model Christian faith for your child. You will promise this in front of your family and friends. If personal faith and regular worship are not part of your own life at the moment, then this is your invitation to reflect on the place of God in your life and to get connected with God and your local parish community. For many people parenthood is an experience which brings them to be in awe of God and to rethink and deepen their spirituality - we hope it will for you.
Because the baptism of your child is a very significant event in the child’s life, and indeed your own, we ask you to attend a Baptism Preparation Workshop prior to the celebration of the baptism. These Baptism Preparation Workshops are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month in the evening at 7pm in St John's Church, 57 Waratah Pde, Narraweena. During the 1 hour workshop, you will learn a little about the Catholic Church’s understanding of Baptism, meet other parents, and have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have. At this workshop, you will book the date for your child’s baptism. This can only be done at the workshop. You can book in for a baptism at either church, according to the day that suits you best. It is essential that both parents attend a workshop, even if you have had other children baptised before. You’re welcome to bring your children if you need to, and the godparents are also welcome to attend.
A donation to the Priest on the day of the baptism would be appreciated. This helps us cover administration and other associated costs. Payment can be made online via our website www.bbcatholic.org.au/warringah/giving.
Baptisms are available between the two churches on almost every Saturday. There will not be more than four families per session. At Kevin's, baptisms are held on 2nd and 4th Saturday and 1st and 3rd Saturday at St John's at 11am.
Please book into the workshop at your earliest convenience, even if you are planning for a much later Baptism, as this will give you a greater chance of getting your first preference. Please think about two possible dates, in case of your first preference is already booked.
For further information and to book a place at the next baptism Workshop please contact the Parish Office at Dee Why on 9982 6536, or email us at warringahparish@bbcatholic.org.au
Baptism for older children