Quick Access
The Doorway to Faith
Baptism
The premier sacrament that initiates a person into the Christian life and faith community. Welcome your child into the family of God.
The Sacrament of New Life
Welcome Your Child into Faith
Baptism is the premier sacrament that initiates a person into the Christian life and faith community. Through the waters of Baptism, your child is welcomed into the Church, cleansed of original sin, and becomes a child of God.
In our parish, we celebrate Baptism after the Sunday 9:00am Mass at St Mary's, North Sydney and the Sunday 10:30am Mass at St Francis Xavier, Lavender Bay. A maximum of three children are baptised at each celebration.
Baptism preparation is essential for parents. We offer two programs — one for parents with infants, and one for children aged 7 and above. Our friendly team, led by Sacramental Coordinator Danielle Chen, will guide you through every step.
Fee
$130 per child
Please complete a separate booking for each child. A maximum of three children are baptised at each celebration.
Ceremony Locations
St Mary's & St Francis Xavier
After the Sunday 9am Mass at St Mary's, or the 10:30am Mass at St Francis Xavier.
Sacramental Coordinator
Danielle Chen
Danielle coordinates all sacramental programs and will guide you through preparation and booking.
Your Journey
Five Steps to Baptism
From preparation to celebration, here is what to expect on your child's journey into the Christian faith.
Book Preparation
Attend a Baptism Preparation session. For infants, this is held monthly on the 1st Tuesday at 6:15pm. For children 7+, four consecutive sessions are held each month.
Choose Godparents
Select at least one Catholic godparent who is confirmed and practising their faith. Godparents play a vital role in supporting the child's spiritual journey.
Book the Ceremony
After attending preparation, you will receive an access code to book the Baptism ceremony. Baptisms are celebrated after the Sunday 9am Mass at St Mary's or the 10:30am Mass at St Francis Xavier.
Prepare for the Day
Choose a white garment, arrange photography, and invite family and friends. Arrive at Mass on time — your attendance at the full Mass is expected.
Celebrate Baptism
The priest will welcome your child into the Christian community through the waters of Baptism. A beautiful sacrament that initiates a lifelong journey of faith.
Preparation is Essential
Baptism Preparation Programs
We offer two preparation programs depending on your child's age. Both are welcoming, informative, and designed to help parents understand the sacrament they are celebrating.
Infant Baptism Preparation
For parents with children aged 0–6 years
Monthly preparation sessions are held on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:15–7:00pm at the Ron Dyer Centre, 42 Ridge Street, North Sydney. No preparation sessions are scheduled in April.
When you attend the preparation session, you will receive additional information on registering for a baptism ceremony, including available dates and the booking process.
What happens at the session?
- Understanding the meaning and significance of Baptism
- The role of parents and godparents in the child's faith journey
- What to expect on the day of the ceremony
- How to book your baptism ceremony date
- Q&A with the Sacramental Coordinator
Godparents
Godparents play a vital role in your child's spiritual life. They are witnesses to the Baptism and commit to supporting the child's faith journey.
Buddy Family Program
Our parish is welcoming many new families whose children are preparing for Baptism. We are looking for friendly parish families to be a warm, familiar face for them.
Interested? Contact Danielle — danielle.chen@northsydneycatholics.com.au
The Celebration
On the Day of Baptism
What to Expect
Arrive for Mass
Godparents, proxies and family guests should arrive at 9:00am (St Mary's) or 10:30am (St Francis Xavier). Your attendance at the full Mass is expected.
White Garment
Your child will be dressed in white, symbolising new life in Christ. A simple white outfit or family christening gown is perfect.
The Rite of Baptism
After Mass, the priest will welcome your child, pour water over their head in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, anoint them with oil, and present a lighted candle.
Photography
Photos are welcome. Please remain discreet during the liturgy. Many families take posed photos after the ceremony in the church or garden.
Important Notes
Cancellation Policy
50% refund within 4 weeks before the baptism. 10% administration fee for all other refunds. Baptism enquiries: olw@northsydneycatholics.com.au
Special Circumstances
If neither parent is Roman Catholic, or one parent would also like to be baptised, please contact the Parish Office to speak to one of the priests before proceeding with the booking: (02) 8918 4101.
Common Questions
Baptism FAQs
There is no set age, though many families choose to baptise within the first year. The Church encourages baptism as soon as possible after birth, but it is never too late. We baptise infants, toddlers, and older children.
No. At least one parent must be Catholic and consent to the child being raised in the Catholic faith. If neither parent is Catholic, or one parent wishes to be baptised too, please contact the Parish Office to speak with a priest before booking.
At least one godparent must be a confirmed, practising Catholic aged 16 or over. A second godparent may be a Christian witness (someone baptised in another Christian tradition). Godparents should be people who will support the child's faith journey.
The Church recognises two godparents — one male and one female. You may name additional people as honorary godparents, but only two are recorded in the sacramental register.
A white garment is traditional, symbolising new life in Christ. This can be a simple white outfit, a family christening gown, or a white shawl placed over the child during the ceremony.
Yes, photography is welcome. We ask that you and your photographer remain discreet during the liturgy. Many families choose to take posed photos after the ceremony in the church or garden.
A 50% refund is available if you cancel within 4 weeks of the baptism. A 10% administration fee applies to all other refunds. Please contact the Parish Office as soon as possible if you need to make changes.
Children aged 7 and above follow a different preparation program with four consecutive sessions. Adults seeking Baptism enter the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process. Contact the Parish Office for guidance.
Get in Touch
Baptism Enquiry
Have questions about Baptism? Fill in the form below and our Sacramental Coordinator will respond within 2 business days.
Sacramental Coordinator
Danielle Chen
Danielle coordinates all sacramental preparation programs across the parish, including Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation and RCIA. She works closely with families, catechists and the priests to ensure every sacramental journey is meaningful and well-supported. Reach out directly — she is here to help.
First Communion
Is your child preparing for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion? Learn about our sacramental programs.
Learn MoreConfirmation
The 2026 Confirmation program opens for registration on 1 June. Information evenings 4 & 11 June.
Confirmation InfoRCIA — Adult Initiation
Thinking about becoming Catholic? The RCIA welcomes inquirers at any stage of their journey.
Learn About RCIA