St Clement of Rome Parish
Our parish here at St Clement of Rome rejoices and prays with you at this happy time for your child. Your desire for baptism is part of the journey you make with your child in the great unfolding of life. By seeking baptism for your child you promise to teach your child to love God. You promise to raise your child in the Catholic way of life. You also pray for the grace to be good parents, because as the baptism ceremony says, you are the "first teachers in the ways of faith".
Parent's role in Baptism
Parents have important responsibilities as the primary teachers of the faith in a child's life. In daily living, Parents help with their child's faith. They set an example of Christian living by their words and actions and show true Christian devotion to their children by fostering a spirit of kindness and forgiveness. You give spiritual support as your child grows in faith and provides for education in the Catholic faith.
Godparent's role in Baptism
The Godparents help present the young child or infant to the Church. They profess their own faith and renounce evil in the name of the young infant being baptised. Godparents represent the entire faith community.
Godparents must be
* Members of the Catholic Church
* Fully initiated (they must have received Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation)
* Mature enough to assume the responsibilities involved (must be over 18 years of age)
* Actively practicing their faith
Baptism Ceremony
On the baptism day, parents usually provide a white garment, a stole, and a baptismal candle. The stole is placed on the child immediately after baptism to signify purification and victory over sin and death. The candle signifies the light of faith, which is entrusted to the parents and godparents who receive it on behalf of the newly baptised child. There will also be an opportunity for family members to take part in readings and prayers.
Baptism Procedure
Baptisms take place in two parts over two weekends every month (no Baptisms will be held in month of January)
Part A
Welcoming and anointing - Third Saturday of the month at 5.30pm Mass.
Part B
Baptism - Fourth Sunday of the month at 12.30pm.
Preparation for Parents & Godparents
An information night will be held on Wednesday before the welcoming weekend at 7pm each month. This must be attended by both parents and godparents.
Candle & Stole
You will be given a candle and a stole to be used at the Baptism and they are included in the suggested offering of $200.
Pre-requisites
It is a requirement of the Church that at least one parent and godparent is baptised Catholic. Parents need to produce documentary proof of their baptism. Those who live outside the parish of St Clement of Rome, should obtain a letter of permission from your local parish to be able to baptise your child at St Clement's.
Godstart Program
The Godstart program acknowledges and supports our families' faith journey. Your child will receive a card on their birthdays together with suggestions for parents to talk to their children about God.
Baptism Verification
At times we receive requests for Baptism Verification, that is if you have been baptised at our Parish and whose original certificate has been misplaced. Please ring the Parish Office to know the procedure.