Congratulations! The birth of your child is an occasion of great joy for you and your family. Our church community shares this joy as you present your child for baptism. You desire the best for your child and that means beginning to share your faith in a wonderful and unique way. God wants to entrust to you, as parents, the care of your child’s unique gift of faith in this sacrament. It is like the precious mustard seed, which through your careful guidance and love over the years, will grow into the magnificent tree which Jesus calls the Kingdom of God and the promise of eternal life. Through baptism your child will become a child of God in Christ. Baptism is also the first sacrament of initiation into the community of faith and the life and mission of the Church.
Please, read this carefully and download the registration form.
What Should I Do
Please, complete as much of the form as possible and return it to the parish office, 39 Duncan Terrace, London N1 8AL. Keep half of the leaflet for the dates of the course. If you live in another parish, you will need to bring a letter of permission from your parish priest.
Dates and times
All baptisms must be preceded by preparation. Before any dates can be arranged or confirmed, the diocese asks that you attend baptism preparation sessions. At St John’s, baptism preparation consists of an evening session and is held about once a month.
There are usually two dates available each month for baptisms, one on a Saturday at 12pm and the other date on a Sunday at 1pm. Baptisms do not take place during Advent or Lent except in emergencies.
Baptismal Names
Your child’s name is unique and careful thought goes into choosing it, but the name should have a Christian sentiment. It goes without saying that the best names to choose are those of the saints. It means that we have a patron (a friend in heaven) praying for us. You can follow the link ‘Saints’ at www.catholic.org for a full list of saints’ names.
Godparents
The role of godparents is very important. They will help you nurture the seed of faith in your child and help you to see that your child is brought up in the living-out of faith. Godparents are very welcome to attend the course. At least one godparent must be a practising Catholic who has been confirmed. Please, speak to a priest before inviting other people to be godparents.
Church Offering
It is customary to make an offering to the Church on these occasions. As a guide, the amount should be in proportion to other expenses involved in the baptism and is for the support of the church.
Please, download the registration form.
