From the earliest times, the Church, to which the mission of preaching the Gospel and of baptising was entrusted, has baptised not only adults but children as well.
Please note that enquiries about Baptism or any other sacrament would need to be done after Mass.
Infant Baptism
To have your child baptised three months notice must be given and you will also be required to attend Mass every Sunday. At least one of the parents must be a practicing catholic and prove of this is indispensable. Catholic parents must provide his or her baptism certificate and parents are expected to attend baptism preparation course.
Godparents and Christian Witnesses:
You choose Godparents to help you raise your child to live and practice their Catholic faith. You need to choose a Godmother or a Godfather, or one of each.
Each Godparent:
Must be at least 16 years old:
Must be a practising Catholic :
Must have received the Sacrament of Eucharist and Confirmation.
You may also choose two Christian witnesses to the baptism. They must be Christians, but not necessarily Catholics.
If you do not live in the Parish or wish to be baptised outside of your Parish
If you do not live in the parish but wish to be baptised in the Catholic Parishes of Buntingford, Old Hall Green and Puckeridge you MUST have a letter of permission from your own local Parish Priest, as well as permission from Father Cyril Chiaha, who is our Parish Priest.
Baptism of Older Children
a) Children presented for baptism or seeking baptism between the ages of 7 and 14 are regarded as children of catechetical age.
They should be prepared for the sacrament following the Rite of the Christian Initiation of Children, part of the RCIA.
b) Children under the age of seven presented for baptism by their parents should be baptised following the usual preparation appropriate for infants – see Infant Baptism above.
c) Young people from the age of 14 should be prepared for the sacrament following the normal RCIA process – see policy for Adult Baptism.
Baptism of Adults
Adults seeking baptism would need to follow the Rite of the Christian Initiation of Adults in the parish and to be baptised at the Easter Vigil when it is discerned they are ready, following the scrutinies of the RCIA.