John 10:10
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The Baptism of Infants & Young Children: A Statement of Principles & Policy is promulgated by authority of the Bishop of Leeds, Rt. Rev. Arthur Roche. It is effective within the Diocese of Leeds from the 8 th January 2007, the Feast of the
Baptism of the Lord. It supersedes any previous statements of diocesan principles and policy with respect to the baptism of infants and young children.
Contents Page
Introduction
The Pastoral Context
Principles and Policy
- Requests for Baptism
- Preparation
- Celebration
- Next Steps
Bibliography
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Diocese of Leeds
Vicariate for Evangelisation
Hinsley Hall
62 Headingley Lane
Leeds
LS6 2BX
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Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptised by him. And when Jesus had been baptised, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.’
Mt. 3:13-17
Baptism incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God’s people. This first sacrament pardons all our sins, rescues us from the power of darkness and brings us to the dignity of adopted children, a new creation through water and the Holy Spirit. Hence we are called and indeed are the Children of God.
Christian Initiation: General Introduction n. 2
1. The celebration of the sacrament of baptism is a foundational event in the life of any child, of their family and friends, and of the local parish community. As the first sacrament of initiation, baptism is the “ basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213)
2. It is through baptism that all sin is forgiven and that we are reborn as sons and daughters of God. We enter the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection so that
“ we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.” (CCC 1213)
Baptism is the source of the bond of communion with all Christians and with the Body of Christ and marks a child out for Christian living and discipleship.
3. Under the leadership and guidance of the Parish Priest, each parish community must ensure that:
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Baptism is pr operly celebrated according to the Church’s tradition and teaching.
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There is sufficient catechesis and preparation for those involved.
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Practical and spiritual support is given to families afterwards.
It is the Bishop’s duty to see that these responsibilities are carried out consistently and effectively throughout the Diocese.
4. This document sets out various principles and recommendations for pastoral practice that together form a policy that is to be followed throughout the Diocese. It is based on the following important texts which should be referred to in full. Details of these can be found in the bibliography.

The General Introduction to Christian Initiation and the Introduction to the Rite of Baptism for Children – These form part of the Roman Ritual and can be found in The Rite of Baptism for Children . These documents provide a clear explanation of the meaning of baptism, combined with a realistic awareness of the pastoral issues involved.
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
The Instruction on Infant Baptism
– In response to certain questions of the day, this statement from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith gives some general guidelines for pastoral action.

The Code of Canon Law – Canons 849-878 deal with baptism and outline the Church’s regulations for this sacrament.
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The Catechism of the Catholic Church – This provides a summary of the
Church’s faith concerning the sacrament of baptism.
Everyone involved in helping families to prepare to celebrate the sacrament of baptism should be thoroughly familiar with the content of these documents.
5. It is essential that the celebration of each of the sacraments of initiation is set within the wider context of the whole life of a parish community. Every parish is a vital part of the local Church, called to proclaim the Gospel, to bui ld God’s Kingdom, and to grow continually in a deepening understanding of faith, hope, and love. Catechesis in preparation for baptism, and support afterwards, should be an integrated aspect of ongoing parish formation in faith, available to everyone and at all levels.
Faith is the womb that conceives this new life, Baptism the rebirth by which it is brought into the light of day. It is brought to maturity by the practice of virtue: it is wedded to wisdom; it gives birth to hope. Its home is the kingdom; its rich inheritance the joys of paradise; its end, not death, but the blessed and everlasting life prepared for those who are worthy.
St Gregory of Nyssa, 4 th
Century
6. Over the past few years there has been extensive discussion of the context in which the pastoral needs of our communities must be addressed. We increasingly recognise that there is great variety in the levels of faith, Christian knowledge, and participation in the life of the Church, among the families who present their children for baptism. From the many possible scenarios, three broad categories can be identified: a. When a family’s living faith means they take an active part in the life of their parish, the celebration of baptism will be a spiritual occasion of joy and commitment. As they take part in the preparation and celebration, there will be a good degree of understanding and the sacrament of baptism will have a natural place in their Christian family life. b. For others, their sense of belonging and of being Catholic may still be strong and important, but their knowledge of the faith may be uncertain, and the rhythm of their participation and practice may be intermittent and uneven. c. A third group of families who request baptism may appear to have little or no connection with the faith and practice of the Catholic community. It is not uncommon for some families to fulfil the requirements for baptism and
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then to have no further contact with the parish. If the children attend the
Catholic school, they and their parents may re-appear at the time for first
Eucharist without any previous participation in the life of the parish.
7. These differences are familiar both to clergy and to catechists. The pastoral challenges they present have been rehearsed many times. They arise in a contemporary context which has seen a gradual unravelling of the relationship between Christian faith and society, and the fragmentation of family life. A choice for active discipleship in the Church is often not considered or taken up. Some find themselves without extensive knowledge or experience of the Church, but remain deeply influenced by residual Christian values, perhaps inherited from parents or grandparents. People often look for rituals and symbols to mark important moments in their lives, bu t are not familiar with the Church’s life of faith through which these are naturally celebrated. For a significant number the choice of baptism will be orientated towards attendance in a Catholic school, but without any further commitment or participation in the parish.
8. Considerations such as these raise various important and practical questions.
Among them, we can ask: Should we baptise everyone for whom the request is made? and What level of commitment should we look for from the families?
These are impossible questions to answer in the abstract. Hopefully, the points that follow will help to inform particular decisions in precise contexts. The Bishops’
Conference document On the Threshold may be helpful here ( see bibliography ). It seeks to provide guidance on the complexity of these pastoral issues and can usefully and practically be used to help clergy and catechists move from general principles to a determination of how best to respond in specific cases.
9. The Rite of Baptism for Children makes clear that from the earliest days of the
Church the sacrament of baptism has been conferred on infants and young children not yet able to profess personal faith. This is “ because they are baptised in the faith of the Church, a faith proclaimed for them by their parents and godparents, who represent both the local Church and the whole society of saints and believers.” (n.
2) In whatever way questions about requests for baptism and the level of commitment required are answered, the celebration of baptism remains expressly linked with the profession of an active and living faith.
Baptism is the sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can believe. The faith required for Baptism is not a perfect and mature faith, but a beginning that is called to develop…For all the baptised, children or adults, faith must grow after Baptism. For this reason the Church celebrates each year at the Easter vigil the renewal of baptismal promises. Preparation for Baptism leads only to the threshold of new life. Baptism is the source of that new life in Christ from which the entire Christian life springs forth.
Catechism of the Catholic Church 1253-1254
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10. In the Diocese of Leeds the baptism of infants and young children is prepared for and celebrated according to the documents listed in paragraph 4. In implementing the directives and spirit set forth in these texts, the following principles constitute the policy for the Diocese. This updates the previous Guidelines issued in November
1987.
Requests for Baptism
11. Every family approaching the Church through a local parish to ask for baptism for their child should be received with courtesy, respect, and hospitality. They should meet a warm welcome from a living Christian community prepared to support and help them in their faith. The serious nature of the commitment they are asked to make should be matched by the assistance offered through the parish preparation programme. The implications of a request for baptism should be explored with those concerned in a positive way, so that the family has a reasonable understanding of the Church’s faith and belief regarding baptism.
12. The Introduction to the Rite of Baptism for Children makes it clear that the full meaning of the sacrament will only be unfolded as children are formed in the faith to which baptism initiates them. This too must be fully explained and discussed with the parents.
13. Although a request for baptism should never be refused outright, the sacrament may be deferred until there is a well founded hope that the child will be brought up in the Catholic faith. (see Canon 868§1) A pastor should not, however, take a decision to defer baptism lightly and must discuss the reasons for this with the parents carefully and sensitively. At least one of the parents must consent to the baptism. (see
Canon 868§1)
The way of the Gospel now lies open before you. Set your feet firmly on that path and acknowledge the living God, who truly speaks to everyone. Walk in the light of Christ and learn to trust in his wisdom.
This is the way of faith along which Christ will lead you in love toward eternal life. Are you prepared to begin this journey today under the guidance of Christ?
Rite of Christian Initiation n. 52
Preparation
14. There must be adequate preparation and catechesis for those presenting an infant or child below catechetical age for baptism. (see
Canon 851§2)
This preparation should be sufficiently flexible to be adapted to the needs of different families. Note:
Children not baptised as infants, who have attained the use of reason and are of catechetical age (seven years and above), should be initiated into the Church using the appropriate process contained within the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
(see pp. 149-185).
15. It is the responsibility of the Parish Priest to ensure that programmes of prebaptismal preparation and catechesis are properly organised and delivered within the parish community. Effective collaboration with parish catechists and, where
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relevant, with other clergy is essential. Given that catechists exercise such an important ministry in baptismal preparation, the Parish Priest must make sure they are properly skilled, trained, and resourced for what is sometimes a very demanding and sensitive role.
16. The Diocesan Co-ordinator for Catechesis is responsible for supporting parishes by providing both initial and ongoing formation for baptism catechists.
17. Although there has been a tradition of administering baptism as soon as possible after birth, baptism should ordinarily only be celebrated after appropriate preparation and catechesis has taken place. The content and length of this formation process cannot be strictly defined as it must respond to the needs of individual families and circumstances. Any programme should, however, consist of adequate formation, supported by a home pastoral visit where possible.
18. In cases of emergency, baptism is to be administered immediately. (see Canon
867§2)
As circumstances allow, a parish celebration of welcome and appropriate catechesis for the family should follow.
19. Where possible, it is recommended that groups of families should be prepared together for the baptism of their children. This experience will itself help to form the families in a sense of the community of faith into which the children are to be initiated, as well as being a sensible practical arrangement.
20. There is obviously scope for parishes and deaneries to work together in providing baptism preparation. This can be arranged locally to suit specific requirements.
21. To mark the beginning of the preparation for baptism there should be a simple introductory presentation of the child and family to the parish community. This can be done by celebrating the Rite of Reception , from the Rite of Baptism , during
Sunday Mass on a date prior to the celebration of the sacrament itself. This will emphasise for all the fact that baptism is not merely a family celebration, but a celebration of the local community of faith. This connection can also be highlighted in other ways, for example, in the Prayers of the Faithful or in congratulatory notices in the parish newsletter.
22. Each parish will decide upon the frequency of the preparation process and when it will be made available.
23. There are many good resources available for the preparation, catechesis, and celebration of baptism. Details of these will be provided and updated by the
Diocesan Co-ordinator for Catechesis.
24. Parents have a most important role to play in seeking baptism for their child and in fulfilling their vocation to form their child in the ways of faith. Preparation for the baptism of their child provides a clear opportunity for their own faith and spiritual life to be nurtured and developed. Indeed, the whole of baptism preparation and celebration offers possibilities for evangelisation at all levels.
25. Careful attention must be paid to the role of the godparent. (see Canons 872-874) A godparent must:
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Be appointed by the candidate (in the case of adults), by his or her parents or guardian, or, failing these, by the Parish Priest. In the case of infants and young children, the choice will usually be made by parents.
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Be a practising Catholic who has been baptised, confirmed and received the
Eucharist.
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Live a life consistent with faith and with the responsibility of being a godparent.
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Have the maturity to undertake the responsibilities (16 years should be the minimum age).
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Be canonically free to carry out the office.
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Not be either the father or mother of the person to be baptised.
Catechesis and preparation is also encouraged for the godparent or godparents, so that they have a clear understanding of their duties and responsibilities.
26. A baptised and believing Christian of another ecclesial community may act as a
Christian witness to the baptism, but that person does not assume the role of godparent. (see
Canon 874§2)
The Ecumenical Directory states that a
“godparent is not merely undertaking his/her responsibility for the Christian education of the person baptised as a relation or friend,” but “is also, as a representative of a community of faith, standing as sponsor for the faith of the candidate.” (Ecumenical
Directory n. 57).
Whilst there is an exception to this, in that Orthodox Christians are allowed to be godparents (Ecumenical Directory n. 48), all other Christians who are not Catholics act as witnesses and must be recorded as such in the baptism register.
27. Although no longer a requirement, it is recommended that parents include a saint’s name among those given to the child. No name should be permitted which is inimical to the Christian faith. (see Canon 855)
In the baptism of children…godparents are to be present in order to represent both the expanded spiritual family of the one to be baptised and the role of the Church as a mother. As occasion offers, godparents help the parents so that children will come to profess the faith and live up to it.
Christian Initiation: General Introduction n.
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Celebration
28. The place for celebrating baptism is usually the parish in which the family resides.
Where a family normally worships in a parish other than the one in which they reside it may be appropriate for the preparation and celebration of baptism to take place in the parish they attend. The written consent of the priest of the parish of residency must be obtained, either by the family or by the minister celebrating the baptism.
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29. Baptism is not a private family event, but a celebration within the community of faith.
This must be reflected in the way baptism is prepared for and celebrated. Where several baptisms are to be celebrated on the same day they should be celebrated together. The Rite of Baptism for Children envisages that baptism may be celebrated during the Sunday Eucharist in the presence of the parish community, but suggests this should not be done “too often.” (see n. 9)
It may be appropriate to group a number of celebrations of baptism together at specific times in the year. As baptism marks our entry into the Paschal mystery of
Christ’s death and resurrection, it is to be celebrated above all at Easter and in
Eastertide. Lent should be a time of preparation for the sacrament, with baptism only celebrated in this season by way of exception for serious pastoral reasons.
Other suitable feasts would be: The Baptism of the Lord or nearest Sunday; the
Sunday before Lent begins; Pentecost; the Sunday nearest the Feast of John the
Baptist; the Sunday nearest to All Saints.
30. The celebration of the sacrament should be carefully prepared and the richness and flexibility of the rite used to the full.
Sacramental symbols create a prayerful and beautiful experience of the Church’s liturgy. Abundant use of water and the oils of Catechumens and Sacred Chrism, the importance of the white garment, and the use of distinctive baptismal candles are all important elements of the rich symbolism of the sacrament. Everything used should be clean and worthy. It should be a memorable experience which will speak to the hearts of those present and inspire and strengthen their faith.
31. Details of the baptism must be entered in the Parish Baptismal Register and a
Certificate of Baptism issued to the family.
Now about baptism: This is how to baptise. Give public instruction on all these points, and then baptise in running water. If you do not have running water, baptise in some other. If you cannot in cold, then in warm. If you have neither then pour water on the head three times, “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Didache, 2 nd century
Next Steps
32. Parishes should develop ways to support parents after the baptism of their child.
Practical and spiritual help will assist them to fulfil the commitment they made at baptism to bring their child up “ in the practice of the faith,” so that “ the light entrusted to them can be kept burning brightly.” (Rite of Baptism n. 12) In this way, baptism will, in reality, be the foundation of the child’s formation in faith. Along with the parish community, the responsibility to help the baptised child grow in the ways of faith rests in a pivotal sense with the parents, assisted by godparents.
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33. Good pastoral practice will develop a variety of ways in which the families of the baptised can be supported and will require adaptation according to particular circumstances. Possible examples might be:
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Regular contact with the families after baptism, perhaps by parishioners who undertake this as their parish ministry.
 Sending cards on the anniversary of the baptism, on the child’s birthday and at
Christmas.
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An annual Mass and social for families who have had a baptism in the previous year.
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Opportunities for parents to learn how to begin the process of formation in faith and spirituality, even with very young children. Resources for this could be made available.
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Planning how to meet the pastoral and spiritual needs of families with young children within the life of the parish, for example through a parent and toddler group.
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Support through family life ministry. This could include parenting programmes for the families of newly baptised children. Such programmes for children of all ages, and run by parents, maintain good parish links with families.
These and other pastoral initiatives can help to maintain and strengthen contact with families and provide the first steps of faith-development for children in the early years before beginning school.
Meanwhile the eleven disciples set out for Galilee, to the mountain where
Jesus had arranged to meet them. When they saw him they fell down before him, though some hesitated. Jesus came up and spoke to them. He said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations; baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And know that I am with you always, yes, to the end of time.”
Mt. 28:16-20

Catechism of the Catholic Church (London: Geoffrey Chapman, 1999).

Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Instruction on Infant Baptism (1980).
 On the Threshold: The Report of the Bishops’ Conference Working Party on
Sacramental Initiation (London: Matthew James Publishing on behalf of the
Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, 2000).

Rite of Baptism for Children (London: Geoffrey Chapman, 1993).
 Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (London: Geoffrey Chapman, 1987).

The Code of Canon Law (London: Collins Liturgical Publication, 1983).
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