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Baptism
The Gospel according to Matthew 28:19-20
Jesus came up and spoke to them. He said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, make disciples of all nations; baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And look, I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.’
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.
Seeking Baptism?
Do you or a loved one want to get Baptised? Your local Parish would love to hear from you!
Baptism into the Family of God - Sacramental Preparation Programme
The Catholic Diocese of Hamilton has produced this sacramental preparation programme ‘Baptised into the Family of God’ . This programme features a series of short educational videos that are designed to kick off a deeper discussion on Baptism.
1. Baptism in the Life of Jesus Christ
For us as Christians, Jesus is the Way the Truth and the Life, and also the best place to start preparation for baptism! The intention of this episode is to convey that we are brought into the family of God through Jesus, by way of Baptism.
2. What is Baptism?
Baptism is not an empty ritual, rather, it is the beginning of a new life. Watch this episode to understand more about what baptism is, what it means, and who can be baptised.
3. The Responsibility of Parents
What is a parent’s responsibility in bringing their child for baptism? This is an important question that parents preparing to have their child baptised must know how to answer. Baptism marks the beginning of a life-long journey for a child.
4. The Role of Godparents
Not only are Godparents an important part of the baptismal ceremony, they are an important part of the faith journey of the child being baptised. A Godparent must know Jesus Christ.
5. The Day of Baptism
The day of baptism features a number of important elements. This video includes and explanation of:
The Baptism - pouring of water + “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”.
Anointing with Chrism - The priestly prophetic, and kingly life of Christ
Presentation of the Candle - “Receive the light of Christ"
Ephphatha - "be opened”
6. Signs and Symbols
The rite of baptism features a number of signs and symbols. This video includes and explanation of:
The Sign of the Cross
Liturgy of the Word
The Litany of Saints
Prayer of Exorcism
Water
Clothing with White Garment
7. Baptism - Parents Testimony
Baptism is a wonderful event in the life of a family. Hear from Colin and Jil as they talk about their experience of baptism.
8. The Baptism of Jesus
This video is designed exclusively for Catechists and provides background information of the foundations of Christian baptism in Sacred Scripture, including John the Baptist, and baptism in the life of Jesus Christ.
Contact the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton
Address: 47 Clyde Street, Hamilton East 3216
Phone: 07 856 6989
Postal: PO Box 4353, Hamilton East 3247
Email: office@cdh.org.nz
Established in 1980, the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton, New Zealand spans from Te Kauwhata to Waihī, and Taumarunui to Gisborne.
"Living the Truth in Love"
