The Sacrament of Baptism is the first sacrament Catholics receive. Through baptism we become sons and daughters of God and are embraced into the family of the Church. Baptism removes the guilt and effects of Original Sin and incorporates the baptised into the Church.

This sacrament is called Baptism, after the central rite by which it is carried out: to baptise (Greek baptizein) means to "plunge" or "immerse". The "plunge" into the water symbolises the candidate's burial into Christ's death, from which he rises up by resurrection with him, as "a new creature". Baptism is performed by immersing the child in water in or by pouring water over the child's forehead as the priest recites ‘I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit’.

Water is the central symbol of baptism. Because water is essential to all life, the water of baptism symbolises the life-giving grace that sustains those who have become children of God.

Oil is used twice in the ceremony. Before the baptism, the child’s breast is smeared with the oil of catechumens as a sign of healing and strengthening. Afterwards the crown of the head is anointed with perfumed chrism as a symbol of joy and thanksgiving.

The white garment with which the newly baptised is then clothed in symbolises their new life in Jesus Christ. It also shows that the newly baptised is now a Christian and with the help of family and friends will grow up to be like Jesus. It is also “the outward sign of Christian dignity”.

A baptismal candle is lit from the paschal candle beside the font and presented to the new member as a sign of the light of Christ.

At St Anthony's Parish the Sacrament of Baptism is By Appointment

Contact the Parish Office on 02 4683 2230 for further details and to make a booking

Baptism Preparation Courses are held on the first and second Tuesday of the even months
February, April, June, August, October & December