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Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word." CCC 1213
Preparation
The Diocese of Rockhampton requires families to undergo Baptism preparation prior to Baptism. The Parish Office will organise with families, for preparation to be completed.
It is important that both parents and Godparents are aware of the importance and responsibility that comes from Baptism. It is necessary to participate in a preparation session even if you have had other children baptised because the Baptism of each child is important. The short session helps to renew the understanding of the meaning and value of Baptism, and to help the family in a practical way to participate more freely in the ceremony. If possible, both parents should attend the preparation session, and Godparents if available.
Families living outside of Rockhampton who cannot attend a Baptism Preparation Session at Rockonia or Park Avenue will need to contact their local parish office and arrange a Baptism Preparation Session within their own parish. Your local parish will then notify our parish of your attendance. Our parish Baptism Information Pack will be posted to you, along with a Baptism Information Form for you to complete.
Parents and Godparents
It is required that one parent is a baptised Catholic. Please contact the Parish Office if this is not the situation.
The church allows only two (2) Godparents who take part in the Baptismal Ceremony. Their names will be written in the Church register and on the Baptimsal Certificate. Both Godparents must be baptised, and Canon Law requires that Godparents be over 16 years of age and at least on Godparent be fully initiated as a Catholic (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation).
Some form of Catholic baptism identification is required for one parent and the Catholic Godparent. Also baptism identification is required for the second Godparent. This can be a Baptismal Certificate, or a name of the Church and date of Baptism.
Items for the Baptism
Typically a candle and a white bib or stole are used in the Baptism ceremony. These will be discussed further in your preparation sessions. These items are available for purchase from the Cathedral Bookstore - http://www.cathedralbooks.com.au/
Arranging the Baptism
After booking a Baptism, paperwork will be issued by the the Parish Office. This paperwork should be completed and signed by both parents or guardians, and returned.
There is a cost of $50 per child, which is to be given at the office when paperwork is returned. This will assist with the cost of parish administration and church maintenance.