The Sacrament of Baptism
Firstly, we want to congratulate you on the birth of your child. We also want to welcome this new born child into our parish.
It is important to prepare well for all sacraments. Baptism is the first sacrament of the Church. The more we are prepared, the more the love of God, given to us through the sacraments, can bear fruit in our lives.
Parents are the first and most important people to pass on faith to their child. In Longford Parish we have set up a Baptism Programme to help parents as they bring their child for Baptism. You are expected to attend a short Baptismal Preparation Course in the Octagonal Room in the Cathedral – at 8.00pm on the First Friday of each month – prior to booking a date for your child's baptism. Please contact the Presbytery 04333 46465 to book a place on this course.
There, two members of the Baptism Team will help you reflect on the sacrament of Baptism by means of input, discussion and prayer. They will talk about the ceremony on the day and answer any questions you may have. The meeting lasts approximately 45mins.
Your child's Baptism will be a special occasion for you and your family. It will also be a special occasion for our parish as we welcome your child into the Christian Community.
- Parents are to bring a Baptism candle and a separate white garment.
- The name that you give your child is important.
- Each child has one or more, usually two, godparents. They must be Catholic, have received Confirmation and be at least 16 years of age.
- The extended family members are all welcome to participate in the Baptism ceremony.
School going children will be expected to attend classes prior to Baptism, First Holy Communion or Confirmation. Please contact the Presbytery to enrol your child in these classes. These classes take place once a week, after school, in the weeks preceding Easter.
For adults wishing to become full members of the Catholic Church, you are asked to attend the RCIA Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults which will commence in the Autumn and complete at Easter time. Please contact the Presbytery - 04333 46465 to enrol in these classes.
