Baptism is the first of the seven sacraments, and according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 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. (Ccc 1213). Baptism, therefore, is a door opener that gives access to the other sacraments. Jesus called his death and resurrection a baptism (Lk 12:50) and so through the sacrament of baptism we become united with Christ, who died for our sins and rose for our justification. Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist constitute the “sacraments of initiation” by which a believer receives the remission of original and personal sin, begins a new life in Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ.
Catholic Parents may request the Sacrament of Baptism for their child. Baptisms are celebrated for registered and regular members of our parish community on the second Sunday of each month beginning with the 11:00 am Mass.
A Baptism Preparation and Information evening is held for Parents and Godparents on the last Tuesday of each month. If the Godparents are not available, this is not a problem. Parents are obliged to attend this preparation evening, which usually takes about an hour.
To arrange Baptism, please contact the parish office and an appointment will be arranged to meet with the priest and complete the required baptism preparation. If you are a non-registered parishioner, you will be required to complete a Parish Registration Form. Should you live in another parish area and are not a registered parishioner of St Mary Immaculate or St Martin of Tours, you must contact the parish where you reside to arrange for Baptism or get a letter of permission from the local pastor before baptism.