Sacraments in the Ballarat & District area
The Catholic Church welcomes people into the Body of Christ through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the reception of First Holy Communion. These sacraments complement each other and are required for full initiation into the Catholic Church. In the case of children baptised as infants, this initiation process is extended over a number of years and is accompanied by appropriate catechesis and pastoral formation.
A child is born into the family of believers through the faith of his/her parents/guardians through infant Baptism. The child’s faith is nurtured within both the domestic Church of the family and within the parish community. When old enough, the child is introduced to formal catechesis and is prepared for the reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion, which complete the Initiation process. The opportunity for children to celebrate their first sacramental reconciliation precedes the first
reception of Holy Communion.
The reception of Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion marks the beginning of a journey of growing intimacy with Jesus Christ as a Catholic Christian. This relationship continues right through life. Further education in faith at home, in the parish and at the Catholic school will build on this beginning, so that there will be a gradual integration of children into a sacramental community which is always working to deepen its faith, celebrate it more prayerfully and share it with the world.
The process of Christian Initiation into the Catholic Church is subject to the universal law of the Church and the particular discipline of each diocese. The Bishop, taking account of the particular circumstances of the local Church, establishes appropriate Policy.
Baptism
Baptism is the beginning of a journey and it requires preparation.
A focal point for reflection as you prepare for the day of baptism –
• celebrate the gift of your child;
• explore the meaning of baptism;
• explain the ritual steps and symbols of the ceremony;
• invite your thoughts and questions.
The faith of the home is fundamental to your child’s journey as a Catholic.
Baptism is not just a ceremony. It also marks the start of a way of life. As parents, you are the prime teachers of your child as he/she develops a relationship with Christ and the Christian community. May this time of preparation deepen your family’s experience of God’s love and enrich the celebration of your child’s special day.
Thank you for your enquiry regarding the Sacrament of Baptism for your child. This information assumes that your child is under the age of 7, if this is not the case please contact your parish office as there is a different program for older children.
The journey to Baptism begins with a Parent Information Session. These sessions are held at the Mary Glowrey Rooms, St Patrick’s Cathedral, on the first Thursday of each month. They are designed to assist parents and godparents in deepening their understanding of the Sacrament and its significance within the life of the Church as well as providing all the information you will require regarding the baptism itself.
Sessions are held at 10:00 am and 5:30 pm and you are welcome to attend the session that best suits your circumstances. Please use this link to register for your preferred session.
Registration for Baptism Parent Information Session – Ballarat Parishes
Should you require any further information or assistance, please email Cathy at sacramentsballarat@ballarat.catholic.org.au
Confirmation
The sacrament of Confirmation is the second sacrament in the journey of initiation into the life of the church. Generally, preparation for this sacrament begins when a baptised child is in Year 3, but it is important that parents believe that their child has achieved an appropriate level of faith development before enrolling their child in this program. Please use the link below to enrol your child to prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation.