For the Baptism, you will need:

• A white garment – This symbolises the new life received in Baptism. It may be a traditional baptism gown, a simple shawl, shirt, dress, or other suitable white garment.
• A white candle – This represents the light of Christ. A simple white pillar candle is ideal, though many families choose to decorate it with a ribbon or have it personalised with the person’s name.

A helpful tip: Godparents, grandparents, and other family members often enjoy contributing to the celebration. Asking someone to prepare the garment or candle can be a meaningful way to involve them and create a lasting keepsake.

In most cases, yes. Before the Baptism, parents are normally asked to meet with the priest to discuss the sacrament, answer any questions, and talk about how the faith will be nurtured after the Baptism.

The Church asks that there be a reasonable hope that a child will be brought up in the Catholic faith. The meeting helps ensure that parents understand the commitments they are making and provides an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns.

If this is not your first child to be baptised, or your circumstances are a little different, the priest may determine that a meeting is not necessary.

Every family is different, and we encourage you to enquire even if your circumstances are not what you think of as “typical”.

Perhaps one parent is not Catholic, you are returning to the Church after some time away, you are raising your children in a mixed-faith household, or there are other family circumstances you are unsure about.

Baptism is a gift, and many situations can be accommodated. The best approach is simply to get in touch so that we can discuss your circumstances and explore the options available.

That’s perfectly fine. Many families begin the Baptism process before they have decided who will be a godparent.

We encourage you to give the decision some thought, as godparents play an important role in supporting a person’s life of faith. However, if you have not yet made a final decision, you are still welcome to submit your enquiry and discuss the details with the priest later.

If you are unsure who may be eligible, please see the information above regarding godparent requirements or contact us for guidance.

Absolutely. While a godparent must be a baptised and confirmed Catholic, there are many meaningful ways family members and friends can be involved in the Baptism and in the child’s life.

A baptised Christian from another denomination may act as a Christian Witness, provided at least one Catholic godparent is appointed.

While non-Christians are not able to undertake the role of godparent, all those who love and support a child play an important part in helping to form, encourage, and guide them throughout their life.

Family and friends might also be involved by helping with the celebration, reading prayers, presenting the candle, taking photographs, or supporting the family in other practical and meaningful ways.

There is no fee for Baptism. The sacraments are gifts of God and are offered freely by the Church.

Many families choose to make a donation as a way of expressing their gratitude for the priest’s ministry and supporting the ongoing work of the parish. Any donation is entirely voluntary and should be made according to your circumstances and means.

If you would like to make a donation, this can usually be done by cash, envelope, or electronic transfer.

Certainly, though there is no obligation or expectation.

Many families choose to invite the priest to join them for a meal or celebration after the Baptism as a way of expressing their gratitude and including him in this important occasion. Depending on other commitments, he may or may not be able to attend, but an invitation is always welcome.

Yes. Children of any age can be baptised.

If a child is old enough to understand what is happening, some additional preparation is usually provided to help them appreciate the meaning of Baptism and participate more fully in the celebration.

We encourage parents to contact us as early as possible so that we can discuss the most appropriate preparation for their child’s age and circumstances.

Absolutely. Adults can be baptised at any age.

If you are interested in becoming Catholic, exploring the Christian faith, or simply have questions about Baptism, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Adult Baptism is usually part of a period of faith formation and preparation, giving you the opportunity to learn more about the Catholic faith, ask questions, and discern your next steps. The process is tailored to each person’s circumstances and previous faith experience.

Baptism is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of one. Through Baptism, a person becomes part of God’s family and is called to grow in faith throughout their life.

For children, parents and godparents play an important role in nurturing that faith through prayer, participation in parish life, and regular attendance at Mass. Small, consistent practices at home can have a lasting impact, such as praying together before bed, reading Bible stories, or including prayer as part of family life.

Many parents worry that young children will be noisy or restless at Mass. Please don’t let that concern keep you away. We love having children present, and God’s house is their house too.

We look forward to supporting you and your family as you continue this journey of faith together.