Christenings
Congratulations on the birth of your child!
Baptism or ‘Christening’ arrangements may vary from church to church. In Clondalkin Village Church Baptisms take place after the 12noon Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month – approximately 12.45pm
Baptism is the beginning of your child’s life- journey with the Lord.
You can arrange a Christening in the Village Church by calling personally to the Parish Office in the Pastoral Centre (second door to the right of the front door of the Church) any morning from Monday to Friday (9.30 to 12.30) You will need to bring with you a copy of your child’s birth certificate.
Please note that if you live outside Clondalkin Village Parish area you should first obtain a courtesy letter from the Priest in the Parish where you live – as this also helps to ensure that schools in your own parish will be aware of the number of children requiring places in that area.
On the day of the baptism please bring a baptismal candle and a white shawl.
When choosing Godparents for your child here is a little info that you can print out and give them to help them think about what you are asking of them –
With the restrictions due to Covid we ask parents to be as prepared as they can for this wonderful sacrament
The Sacrament of Baptism – What is it about – watch this short video as an introduction
Baptism is a Gift and a Blessing – Baptism is the Door to our Faith watch this short video to better understand Catholic Baptism
There are 7 Sacraments in the Catholic church – for a quick overview look at
And for a deeper understanding – have a look at
So what are the Symbols of Baptism and what do they mean?
And here’s a little more detail
A short handout on the 5 main symbols of Baptism –
In summary:
Sacrament = “a sign of the sacred.” “sacred” means (holy; from God).
The Catholic sacraments are very special ways that God shows His love for us.
When we receive the sacraments, we receive grace, which is God’s life in us.
The Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist are the foundations of the Christian life.
Baptism is the birth into new life in Christ. In accordance with the Lord’s will, it is necessary for salvation, as is the Church herself, which we enter by Baptism.
Therefore Baptism:
~Makes us a member of God’s family in the Catholic Church.
~Is the “door” that gives us access to the other sacraments.
~Is a Grace and gift from God
~A promise and guarantee of divine protection
~We receive remission of original and personal sin
~We begin a new life in Christ
~We receive the Holy Spirit
~Calls us to serve God as a disciple
~Baptism imprints a spiritual sign which is impossible to remove
~Baptism cannot be repeated
So in bringing your child for Baptism – a few questions for you to consider:
- Why do you want your child to be Baptised?
- Do you understand the sacrament and what you are asking?
- How are you and your family preparing?
- What are your hopes for the faith of your child and your family?
- How would you like the church to support your family?
If you have any questions do not hesitate to give us a call – we would love to hear from you