Baptism

In our parish communities — St Mary’s, St John Bosco, and St Edward’s — we believe that Baptism is the joyful beginning of a lifelong journey of faith.

Whether for a newborn child, a young person, or an adult, Baptism is the first and foundational sacrament: the gateway to life in Christ and full membership in the Catholic Church.

Baptism is not simply a family occasion or a tradition.
It is a real moment of grace in which God acts.

Through Baptism, we are:

  • freed from sin
  • reborn as children of God
  • made members of Christ’s Body, the Church
  • called to a lifelong vocation of holiness and mission

Why Baptism Matters

God Acts First

Baptism is a sacrament — an outward sign of an invisible grace. It is not primarily something we do, but something God does in us.

Through Baptism, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection and sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Baptism Brings Us Into a People

To be baptised is not simply to belong to a building, but to a living Church.

At St Mary’s, St John Bosco, and St Edward’s, Baptism is celebrated as an act of welcome into a praying, worshipping parish family.

Baptism Begins a Journey

Baptism is the beginning, not the end, of the Christian life.

The grace given in Baptism is meant to grow through prayer, the Eucharist, Christian formation, and faithful participation in the life of the Church.

For this reason, our parish accompanies families and individuals through:

  • ongoing parish life
  • sacramental preparation
  • prayer and formation
  • support appropriate to each stage of life

You are not expected to walk this journey alone.

Baptism Is Always a Sign of Hope

Every Baptism renews the whole Church.

It reminds us of our own baptismal promises and proclaims God’s faithfulness to His people.

Baptism Preparation in Our Parish

For Infants and Young Children

Parents are accompanied through a simple individualised preparation pathway designed to help them understand the meaning of Baptism, the promises they will make, and how to begin living the Catholic faith more intentionally at home.

Preparation normally includes:

  • an initial conversation with the priest
  • three simple preparation sessions
  • guidance for parents and godparents
  • practical help for prayer and Catholic family life

The pathway is conversational, personal, and adapted pastorally to each family.

The Three Preparation Sessions (click the links to access)

For catechists, parents, and godparents: these sheets may be used in conversation with a priest or catechist, or slowly at home. There is no need to rush. Read, pray, ask questions, and return to it over time.

1. What Baptism Is

Why the Church baptises, what grace is given, and what Baptism truly does.

2. The Rite of Baptism

The meaning of the words, symbols, promises, oils, water, candle, and white garment.

3. Living the Grace of Baptism Daily

How faith is nurtured through prayer, Sunday Mass, the sacraments, and Christian family life.

These sessions are not simply words to get through, but guides for conversation, prayer, and growth in faith.

Baptisms are normally celebrated:

  • within Sunday Mass whenever possible, or
  • at another suitable time by arrangement

This may take place at St Mary’s, St John Bosco, or St Edward’s, depending on family connection and availability.

For Older Children and Adults

Baptism for older children and adults takes place through:

This normally includes:

  • regular meetings and formation
  • participation in parish life
  • prayer and accompaniment
  • full initiation into the Church through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, often at the Easter Vigil

Godparents and Christian Witnesses

Choosing godparents is an important part of preparation.

Godparents are not honorary titles; they are witnesses of faith who support parents in raising a child as a Catholic.

How Many Godparents May We Have?

A child may have:

  • one godparent, or
  • two godparents (one godfather and one godmother)

If there is only one Catholic godparent, a Christian Witness of the opposite sex may also be chosen.

Who Can Be a Godparent?

A godparent must be a practising Catholic, able to fulfil this role in faith and life.

This means the godparent:

  • is baptised, confirmed, and has received First Holy Communion in the Catholic Church
  • is at least 16 years old
  • lives in a way consistent with the Catholic faith
  • participates regularly in Sunday Mass
  • receives the sacrament of Reconciliation
  • intends to continue living the Catholic faith
  • is willing to support the parents in raising the child as a Catholic

Someone who is baptised Catholic but no longer practising the faith is not eligible to serve as a godparent.

What Is a Christian Witness?

A Christian Witness:

  • is baptised in another Christian community
  • may stand alongside one Catholic godparent
  • gives Christian witness to the baptism

A baptised Catholic cannot serve as a Christian Witness.

Proof of baptism is required.

Preparation for Godparents

Godparents are encouraged to take part in the preparation alongside the family.

This is not a test, but an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of Baptism and the responsibility being accepted.

Baptism Preparation Resources

Families and godparents are welcome to use the parish preparation materials before and after the preparation meetings.

Downloadable Resources

These materials are intended to support ongoing Catholic life in the home, not simply preparation for the day of Baptism itself.

Interested in Baptism? Let’s Begin

Whether you are:

  • seeking Baptism for your child
  • exploring Baptism for yourself
  • returning to the Church after time away
  • unsure where to begin

you are very welcome to make contact.

Preparation begins with a conversation and unfolds gradually and personally.

If your family has been away from regular practice for some time, please do not be afraid to get in touch. Preparation can also be an opportunity to begin again in faith, prayer, and parish life.

Contact

Fr John Owens
john.owens@dioceseofnottingham.uk

St Mary’s | St John Bosco | St Edward’s

“You are God’s beloved child.
You belong to Christ.
You are part of His Body.”

That is what Baptism proclaims.