Baptism is the first step of a journey into full membership of the Family of God, the Church. Here in the parish of St John Paul II we welcome applications both from parents for their children to be baptised, and from adults who themselves wish to undergo appropriate preparation for reception into the Church.
Normally, we would require all applicants to be resident in this parish. If anyone from elsewhere has good reason to choose Holy Cross or St Mary's for Baptism, it will be necessary to discuss this first with the priest in the parish where you live.
Babies and Infants
For babies and young children being brought for Baptism, we would normally expect that at least one parent is Catholic - only as a full member of the Church family yourself can you really support your child on their journey into the Church. As parents, you will be your child's first and most important teachers in the Faith - please be sure when you ask that it is your genuine wish to support and encourage them at every step of their Faith journey until they are old enough to make their own mature and informed decisions. If you would like your child to be baptised, please come along to Mass and, if it is relatively new to you, make a point of becoming a part of the community here. You are asking that your child becomes part of the Family of God here in this parish - so strive to ensure that you and your child recognise yourselves as truly a part of this family. You will be made most welcome! You can discuss appropriate preparation for the Sacrament with Pam, our Baptism Co-ordinator.
Older Children
Please be aware that, over the age of seven, Canon Law requires a special approach to Baptism in which the children are themselves directly involved in the decision to enter the Church. By this time, it will be too late simply to request Baptism in readiness for them to join the First Communion programme with their friends, as special preparation for both Holy Communion and Confirmation must be included as part of their tuition. We provide classes to support children up to the age of fourteen on this special journey, but first and foremost pleas come along to Mass and make yourselves known afterwards to the priest, who will be able to put you in touch with other members of our friendly team. Please visit our Child/Young Person Reception page for more information and an application form. (Above the age of fourteen, preparation will be offered in line with the adult course below).
Adults
Adult receptions will normally take place at Easter, and the programme for preparation is the "Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults" or "RCIA". Anyone interested in this programme should speak firstly to the Parish Priest, (without any obligation). If you feel you may be interested or would like a little more information, please go to our Adult Reception page HERE.
And finally...
Please be aware that preparation for such an important Sacrament takes time! We will never begin by "booking a date", but we will support you every step of the way.