Sacraments in Ballarat & Surrounds
The Catholic Church welcomes people into a community, which models itself on the values and teachings of Jesus, through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. 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 seen as a journey which extends over a number of years and is accompanied by appropriate catechesis and pastoral formation. Throughout this journey the children grow in relationship with the church supported by their family, parish and Catholic school.
Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament in this journey of initiation, and it requires preparation by the family. As parents you are recognised as the first teachers of your children, and you walk with them as they develop a relationship with Christ and the Christian community. 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. Please read on to discover how to begin this process with your child, noting that this information assumes that your child is under the age of 7. If you have an older child who is seeking Baptism please contact your parish office to inquire about the program which caters for these 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 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 in the Diocese of Ballarat. 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. When school-aged children are preparing for sacraments, the diocese uses a model which is ‘Family Based, School Supported and Parish Coordinated.’ Please use the link below to express interest in having your child confirmed in one of our parishes and you will be contacted with more information. Sacrament of Confirmation Expression of Interest – Parishes of Ballarat