Baptism
Baptism is one of the most important and significant occasions on our spiritual journey. It marks the entry into the Christian faith, into a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
If seeking baptism at St Peter’s in Brighton Beach it is assumed that you already have a connection with this Church, are a parishioner here, or intend to become one. Baptisms are normally conducted in the parish church within the parish in which you live.
Through baptism we have been brought into the church, the body of Christ. The whole of our Christian life thereafter should be a living out of our baptism or a living into the “true, full and eternal life in which Jesus Christ unites God and humanity”.
Baptism requires a commitment on the part of adults (in the case of the baptism of infants) that they will answer in the name of their child: * Will you accept the responsibility placed upon you in bringing your child for baptism. * Are you willing to answer on behalf of your child * By your own prayers and example, by your friendship and love, will you encourage your child in the life and faith of the Christian community. Are you prepared to link yourself with your local faith community through its life of worship and service.
The Way Ahead
You may feel that you are not able to answer these questions as yet. If this is the case the Church provides a service of Thanksgiving for a Child, and the Vicar will be happy to discuss this wonderful service for your child.
Baptism does not make us Anglican or Church of England. We are not baptized into a denomination or a building. We are baptized into Christ; into his death and resurrection, into a living relationship which we seek to live out through our life’s journey. The “where” we do that is the denominational question, to which faith community we link ourselves. We would warmly welcome you to St Peter’s as your community of faith.
Godparents: There are normally three Godparents (two of the sex of the child and one of the opposite sex). They should be baptized members of the Christian Church - not necessarily of the Anglican Church.
The Baptism Service:
The Baptism should normally be conducted during the main 10am Sunday Eucharist when the faith community is present, and able to welcome you and support you and your child in this significant moment. Sometimes (usually monthly) baptisms are held after the main morning service (at 11.45am), and these may be with other families.
Welcome: The Vicar welcomes the opportunity to discuss baptism with you. We welcome your coming to St Peter’s for the baptism, and we seek to make it a joyful and happy occasion for you and your family and friends. If we can assist in any way, please do not hesitate to contact us prior to the service.
Please contact the Church Office on (03) 9592 2397 for further information.