Baptism

Baptism is the sacrament through which we become part of the family of God. You can find out more about the Sacrament of Baptism in our Children's Liturgy video. This might be particularly helpful if you have an older child who is being baptised:

Our parish welcomes those who wish to be baptised. Baptisms are arranged by contacting our Parish Priest or Deacons, who will help parents prepare for this special event.

For adults wishing to be Baptised, please visit our Becoming a Catholic page.

Baptism at our Parish

All Baptisms are usually carried out on Sundays at 11.30am (at Holy Family, Pensby) and 12.30pm (at Our Lady & St John, Heswall). However, alternative arrangements may be discussed with the Parish Priest/Deacon.

Please confirm requested date (and time) with Parish Priest/Deacon, BEFORE finalising details of any reception/party. Particularly those involving Venues etc.

If you are not resident in Our Lady & St John Parish or Holy Family Parish then please obtain permission from the Parish Priest in whose parish you reside for baptism to take place away from there.

Godparents - It is usual that the child have 2 or 3 God-parents. They should be over 18yrs of age. At least one of the God-parents must be a Practising Catholic (i.e Regular Mass attending).

It is traditional that an Offering be given to the Officiating Clergy (the amount to be at your own discretion).

On the day of Baptism, we ask that your party is assembled in Church at least 5 minutes before the appointed time. This is so that the Ceremony may commence on time. This is particularly important during busy times when another Baptism may be following yours.

Please Note, It may not always be possible to Baptise your Child in a Private Ceremony. On occasion you may have to “double up” with another Family who are having a child Baptised too, and have requested the same date as you.