and a voice from heaven came, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’ Matthew 3:17

Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation which one receives in the Catholic Church. The tradition goes right back to Jesus himself who was baptised by John in the River Jordan. It is therefore an ancient and important tradition, for this reason when a child is baptised the parish gives a short session of preparation for all those involved.

Usually the day before the baptism the parents and God-parents of the infant are invited to the church where they learn about the history and meaning of baptism. They are also asked to reflect on the process which this moment begins; that of raising a child in the Catholic Faith. It is usually an enjoyable time and serves to offer adults a chance to deepen in their own faith and perhaps be renewed in their own practice.

The session also gives couples an opportunity to meet other young parents and to see where they may like to become involved in the parish, especially if they are new members. This hopefully contributes to their own lives and that of their family, as well as helping the parish community to grow in love and the Christian life