FORSTER/TUNCURRY
Baptisms in the Parish of Forster Tuncurry
Baptisms in the Parish of Forster Tuncurry
The Anglican Church baptises children and older persons (any age) who approach us for baptism. There is preparation with a priest before baptism at which the practicalities, the meaning of the baptism symbols and the service itself is reviewed. This is a great opportunity for the priest to get to know the parents of the children or the adult who is to be baptised.
Adults who wish to be baptised usually come to several meetings with the priest because they need to make the promises for themselves. Adults who choose to be baptised are encouraged to also seek confirmation by the Bishop.
Baptism is a big step today and is somewhat counter-cultural with so few parents being members of a church family. Parents who bring their children for baptism should take very seriously the whole matter of whether or not they can truthfully make the promises that will be put to them to make during the baptism service. Many people make the promises but, by their subsequent behaviour, do not seem to intend to keep them which is a tragedy.
The main promise for sponsors and parents is this: By your prayers and example, by your friendship and love, will you encourage (NAME) in the life and faith of the Christian community? To which the response by the parent and godparent is "I will with God's help". Think about this promise if you are considering baptism for your child or for yourself.
Baptisms may occur at any of the parish churches during the services of Holy Communion:
Baptisms may also occur at 12.00 noon on Sundays by arrangement - this is the preferred option of many.
Because Saturdays are set aside for weddings and preparation for Sunday services, Saturday baptisms are not preferred. Normally there is no fee for baptism (Most families make a donation to the church at the time of baptism.) A Saturday baptism can be arranged for a fee but again this is not our preference. Choosing to have your baptism on Sundays with no fee helps us all.
For further information regarding baptism please call Fr Jeffrey on 6554 8351.
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Baptism can be a source of great joy for family, friends and priest as well as for the person being baptised. When some one is baptised they are incorporated into the body of Christ, the Church. Coming to know the Lord Jesus Christ in a real relationship through baptism, prayerfully and sincerely entered into, is the only way to a fulfilled and joyful life.
St Alban's, Forster (6.00 pm each Saturday, each 9.00 am Sunday)
St Nicholas, Tuncurry (7.30 am each Sunday)
St Paul's, Nabiac (10.00 am, 1st and 3rd Sundays)
St John's Dyers Crossing 10.00 am, 2nd and 4th Sundays)
St James, Bungwahl. (11.00 am, 2nd and 4th Sundays)