Baptism

The fact that Baptism is often seen as the time that a person receives their name should make us aware that this is a very significant moment. Baptism gives us our identity as a child of God. It says that this person – baby, child or adult – is now known by name to God and also to the community as someone special, someone unique, a member of God’s family. So this is not just some nice little blessing or family party – it is putting someone in a special relationship to God, and allowing God to claim that person as God’s beloved daughter or son. That is something which changes that person for ever!

Almighty and ever-living God,
You sent your Son into the world
To cast out the power of Satan, spirit of evil,
To rescue man from the kingdom of darkness, and bring him into the kingdom of light.
We pray for these children
Set them free from original sin,
Make them temples of you glory, and send you Holy Spirit to dwell with them.

If you think that you would like to be baptised, or perhaps your child or children, then the first person to approach is your local parish priest – and even if you don’t know him well – or at all – you will find him someone with whom can talk these things through.