Faq's Baptism

Do I need a Baptismal Candle for the ceremony?

Yes.The candle is one of important symbols that form part of the Baptismal Ceremony. The candle is lit from the Light of the Paschal (Easter) Candle. This light symbolises the light of Christ who is the Light of the World.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:41
 

What does the candle symbolise?

The Baptism Candle reminds us that the light of Christ has entered the person’s life. The flame symbolises the flame of faith which will burn throughout their life.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:41
 

Who is responsible to buy the candle?

It is custom that either the parents or the god parents provide the candle, which the father or a godparents holds during the ceremony. Occasionally the Church will provide a plan candle, however the majority of people choose to have a personalised candle made as a keepsake of this special occasion.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:40
 

Can you give the Baptismal candle as a gift?

Yes, in fact in certain cultures it is customary for the Godparents to purchase the candle. The candle can also be purchased by a member of the family or a close friend. Check with the parents to insure that only one candle is being purchased.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:39
 

What else do I need for the Christening Ceremony?

The child needs to be dressed in a white garment as it forms part of the ceremony. In some communities a pewter Christening Mug is used to pour the water from the font onto the child’s head. This also becomes a keepsake of the special ocassion.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:38
 

What are the symbols of Baptism?


  • The Assembly – Church Ceremony
    • The assembled community welcomes the child into the community.

  • Sign of the Cross
    • The priest will trace the cross on the forehead of the child and invites the parents and godparents to do the same.

  • The Word of God
    • The Scriptures are always read as part of the ceremony.
  • Baptismal Promises
    • The parents and Godparents will gather around the baptismal font which holds the waters of Baptism. The mother usually holds the child. The celebrant will ask the parents what they want for the child, upon which they reply ‘Baptism”. Then they make the baptismal promises on behalf of the child

  • Water
    • The priest pours the water over the child’s head (or immerses the child completely in water). Water is a sign of life and without it nothing can grow. It is a sign of the new spiritual life into which the baptised person is entering.

  • Oils
    • Oil of Baptism is olive oil which is rubbed onto the breast of the child, symbolising strengthening for the life ahead.
    • Oil of Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balsam (sweet-smelling ointment) which is rubbed on the crown of the head. It is a sign of sealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
    • The Oil of Chrism is used again in the Sacrament of Confirmation.

  • Baptismal Candle

  • White Garment
    • Clothing the child in a white garment is part of the ceremony and symbolises the child’s new life in Christ. The colour white represents purity, newness and life.

  • Baptismal Certificate and Baptismal Register
    • At the end of the ceremony the parents and god parents are asked to sign the parish Baptismal register and you will be presented with the Baptismal Certificate. This certificate may be needed later when the child is enrolled in school or before they receive the sacrament of Eucharist and Confirmation.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:32
 

What are appropriate gifts for Baptism?

Religious gifts include rosary beads, bibles, prayer books, religious statues or icons, prayer cards etc.
Picture frames, pewter christening mugs, certificate holders, ceramic money boxes are also appropriate. Jewellery can also be given.
Last Updated on Monday, 25 October 2010 09:38
 

Shopping Cart

No Items In Your CartTotal:$0.00 View Your CartCheckout

Product Categories

 

Product Search

Search:

Login

Newsletters

S&S News and Specials


Receive HTML?

RSS Feeds