Arranging a Baptism

Baptism is the Catholic Sacrament by which the non-Baptised become members of the Church. Most Baptisms are with babies or toddlers, but there is certainly no upper age limit for this Sacrament, and here at St Werburgh's we are baptising increasing numbers of older children, and adults, young and old.

In order for a baby to be baptised, at least one Parent needs to be a Catholic, and to reside in the Parish. If you do not live in St Werburgh's, you would need to have the permission of your own Parish Priest first. If you would like to have your baby baptised, please contact the Parish to make an appointment to see Fr Paul.

For older children, it is obviously necessary to have their consent as well, and some period of preparation, but we are always delighted to welcome such requests and to work with such families.

At St Werburgh's, all baptisms are conducted individually, unless it is two members of the same family who wish to be baptised together. There is no set time for baptisms, but Saturdays and Sundays obviously tend to be most popular, and 12.30 pm seems a popular time with many families. The ceremony lasts about half an hour.

For an older child or adult who has already been baptised in another Christian church, the Rite of Initiation (that is, the way one becomes a Catholic) is through the Sacrament of Confirmation. Again, please make an appointment with Fr Paul to discuss your individual situation. For adults, there is more information under "Becoming a Catholic" and "Catholic Enquiry Course".