We are pleased that you, or someone close to you, is interested in seeking baptism for a child at St. John's, Kanata North.
The gift of faith is the most precious thing a child can be given. Faith, or more accurately trust, is about connection to life, God, and community. Baptism is a sacrament, and sacraments are defined as 'an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace'. This means baptism is intended to connect this visible life with the spiritual reality that is at the heart of all life. This spiritual connection is intended to be a lifelong pursuit which aids us in living fully and with integrity. To help fulfill this, our parish tries to help in the preparation for and living of the baptismal promises.
Sacraments in the Christian Church (by tradition seven in total) use simple life-giving symbols to connect us to God and the community of faith. In the case of baptism, the chief symbol is water. Water is, in human life, essential for our existence. We are born from it, we need it to sustain life, and we cleanse ourselves with it.
In baptism, the symbolism of water, reminds us of all these things – the water of creation, the freeing of the people of Israel from slavery, and the washing away of all those things which inhibit a full life with God in the community. Jesus chose baptism as the way of marking the beginning of his ministry. With baptism we still mark our entering into the ministry of 'the priesthood of all believers', that biblical image reminding people that we are interdependent with one another, and called to love and service in the community and the world.
Preparatory steps for child baptism at St. John's, Kanata North
Contact the Parish Office to obtain a Baptismal Request Form. Complete and return it.
At a convenient time, contact our priest to go over the service, and what baptism means for you and your family. Together you will come up with a date/time and service format that works for you and the priest.
Try to make your home a place where there are resources available to your child to help them learn more about the faith into which they have been baptized.
Are you seeking adult baptism?
If so, please contact our priest through the Parish Office.