ST SIMON THE APOSTLE PARISH, ROWVILLE

Baptism

Baptism of Your Child at St Simon’s

We are delighted that you are considering having your child baptised at St Simon’s Parish, Rowville. Baptism is the beginning of a new journey of faith for both your child and your family. Through this sacrament, your child is embraced into God’s family, the Church, and becomes part of our Catholic community.

We pray that this step will be a joyful and grace-filled experience for you and your family.

Ceremony & Preparation

Baptism Ceremony

📅 3rd Sunday of each month

🕐 12.30 pm

Baptism Preparation Session

📅 1st Wednesday of each month

🕐 7.30 pm (60 minutes)

📍 Venue: St Simon’s Church

👉 We recommend arranging babysitting so you can fully benefit from the session.

Rite of Welcome

This important step must take place before Baptism. During Mass, your child will be formally welcomed by the parish community and receive the stole and candle to be used at the Baptism.

📅 2nd Saturday of each month – 6.00 pm Mass

📅 2nd Sunday of each month – 9.00 am or 11.00 am Mass

👉 Please arrive 10 minutes early and check in with the help desk assistant.

If you are unable to attend, contact the Parish Office to rebook.

Requirements for Baptism

1. Godparents

  • Normally two Godparents are chosen.
  • At least one must be a practising Catholic.
  • Other Godparents may be baptised Christians (they are termed Christian Witnesses).
  • Godparents should be ready to support you in raising your child in the Catholic faith.

2. White Stole (provided by the parish)

  • Symbolises the dignity your child shares with God.
  • May be personalised with baptismal symbols.
  • The stole can also be worn at First Eucharist and Confirmation.

3. Baptismal Candle (provided by the parish)

  • Symbolises the light of Christ.
  • Families may personalise the candle with name and date.
  • Hand-decorated candles by the Benedictine nuns (Yarra Ranges) are available during preparation evening.

Important Notes

  • Dates are not confirmed until you receive a confirmation email from the Parish Coordinator. Please wait for confirmation before you arrange any festivites.
  • During the ceremony, the priest will remind you of your responsibility to raise your child in the Catholic faith and you will respond: “We do.”

Contact & Enrolment

To enrol your child for Baptism, please request the enrolment form:

📧 Email: theresa.abraham@cam.org.au

📞 Phone: (03) 9764 4058