About Baptism
Christian Baptism is the mystery of starting anew, of dying to an old way of life and being born again into a new way of life, in Christ.
In the Orthodox Church, baptism is “for the remission of sins” (cf. the Nicene Creed) and for entrance into the Church; the person being baptised is cleansed of all sins and is united to Christ; through the waters of baptism he or she is mysteriously crucified and buried with Christ, and is raised with him to newness of life, having “put on” Christ (that is, having been clothed in Christ). The cleansing of sins includes the washing away of the ancestral sin.
“We acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins.”
These words, found in the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed, simply and yet boldly declare Orthodox teaching on baptism. The baptismal experience is often considered the fundamental Christian experience.
About Chrismation
The Sacrament of Chrismation (Confirmation) immediately follows baptism and is never delayed until a later age. As the ministry of Christ was enlivened by the Spirit, and the preaching of the Apostles strengthened by the Spirit, so is the life of each Orthodox Christian sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Chrismation, which is often referred to as one’s personal Pentecost, is the Sacrament which imparts the Spirit in a special way.
In the Sacrament of Chrismation, the priest anoints the various parts of the body of the newly-baptised with Holy Oil saying: “The seal of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.” The Holy Oil, which is blessed by the bishop, is a sign of consecration and strength. The Sacrament emphasises the truth that not only is each person a valuable member of the Church, but also each one is blessed by the Spirit with certain gifts and talents. The anointing also reminds us that our bodies are valuable and are involved in the process of salvation.
The Sacraments of initiation are always concluded with the distribution of Holy Communion to the newly-baptised. Ideally, this takes place within the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. This practice reveals that Orthodoxy views children from their infancy as important members of the Church. There is never a time when the young are not part of God’s people.
In order to make a booking for your child’s baptism, please contact us to speak with the priest.
What you will need to bring:
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Child’s birth certificate
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Godparent’s proof of identity and Orthodox Baptism / Chrismation
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New white baptismal robe / clothes for the child
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A baptismal cross
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A large candle
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Olive oil
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A bar of soap
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A large white bath towel and cotton sheet (myropani)
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A white hand towel
Frequently Asked Questions:
What do I need to consider when choosing a Baptismal name?
The child should be baptised with a Christian name. The name can differ from the name given on their birth certificate.
How do I choose a Godparent?
A child is baptised with 1 Godparent. The child’s Godparent must be a Christian of the Eastern Orthodox Church, in good standing with the church, and provide a certificate of baptism or chrismation. At the service the Godparent confesses their Orthodox faith and reads the Nicene Creed.
Do I need to fill out any forms?
You will need to complete the baptism consent and record form (which will be given to you by the priest) and return it before the baptism.
How about adult Baptism?
If you are an adult interested in joining the Orthodox Church please contact us. Adults are prepared for baptism over a period of time through instruction and attendance at worship. Please note that it is not acceptable for anyone to instruct the priest regarding when a baptism / Chrismation should take place. If there are deadlines imminent, such as wedding date, it is up to the candidate to contact the priest at least a year in advance.