Special EventsBaptismsBaptisms are arranged by appointment with the Rector. Baptism is an ancient symbol of cleansing. Our Lord Jesus Christ was himself baptised by John the Baptist in the River Jordan at the start of his ministry. Our Lord instituted Baptism as a Sacrament and sign of Church membership and commanded us to continue the practice. Children are brought to baptism in response to God's all embracing love; although not yet old enough to make the promises themselves, God wants them included as members of Christ's body the Church. In due time they should make their own commitment through Confirmation. When people are baptised they become members of the Body of Christ, the Christian Church and they receive the Holy Spirit as our Lord did in his baptism. The naming ceremony within the Baptismal Service is the 'Christening' part of the Service. This is the time when we formally are given our Christian names. Baptism with water symbolises the cleansing of sin that Jesus' death and resurrection made possible, the sustaining power that Jesus offers us in this life and the new life with God that is the Christian hope. The Baptism Service involves a thanksgiving for the gift of a child, the naming, a statement of faith - made by godparents for those too young to make it themselves - and the baptism. Baptisms normally occur during the regular 9:30am Family Service on Sundays at St John's. Private family baptisms may be arranged in special circumstances. The Rector is happy to listen to your particular family needs and requests. There is no charge for Baptism, although it is traditional at the time of baptism for a family to make a thanks offering to God for the gift of their child. Private baptisms attract a church use fee of $150. Prior to any baptism being agreed to it is required that the parents meet with the Rector. At or following that meeting agreement for the baptism can be made. Topics covered in the information evening include: What is Baptism? Choosing godparents. Responsibilities of godparents and parents (sponsors) What to wear for Baptism. The statements of faith required by sponsors. Raising a child in the life and faith of the Christian community. Adult Baptisms are also conducted at St John's. These can be in conjunction with the baptism of a child of the same family (a surprising number of parents were not brought by their parents for baptism as infants), or in a separate service. Parents and godparents from other Christian traditions can bring or sponsor children for baptism as Anglicans at St John's, but this should be discussed with the Rector. Under certain circumstances it is possible to have another Anglican priest conduct the baptism at St John's. This needs to be discussed with the Rector to determine if it is possible. To avoid embarrassment, this discussion should occur before the other priest is invited to take the service. It may be possible for families to be prepared for Baptism by clergy in other locations prior to baptism at St John's. This situation needs to be discussed with the Rector. Baptism services may involve more than one family. Children are welcome at baptism services; it is a good opportunity for them to discuss their own baptism. For further information please contact the Rector through the Parish Office. To download a Baptism Application Form Baptism Application FormBaptismal Wall HangingThe Quilted Baptismal Wall Hanging was presented by the members of Caritas on the occasion of the 125th Anniversary of the laying of the Foundation Stone of St. John the Evangelist church, Gordon, on October 26th, 1872. The Wall Hanging is composed of two sections - (A) THE CENTRAL PANEL (A) THE CENTRAL PANELA “Celtic Chain” design was chosen for the central panel (mottled blue and pink material on a cream background). This was to symbolise the linking together of God’s people through Baptism thus becoming part of God’s great spiritual family. (B) THE QUILTED BORDER PANELSTHE CROSS The Cross symbolises man’s reconciliation to God the Father, which comes through the redemptive work of His Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ. The quilted rays of light emanating from the Cross symbolise God’s Love reaching out to all mankind. THE DOVE The Dove symbolises God the Holy Spirit who brings, Light, Life and Peace. The Holy Spirit’s presence is symbolised by wind and fire - and these intertwining elements are quilted to incorporate the lighted candle. THE CANDLE A lighted candle is presented to each Godparent at the Baptism. The lighted candle symbolises the “passing from death into life” and is undergirded by the prayers of the congregation that the ‘newly baptised’ may shine as a ‘Light’ in this world. THE FONT The Font is a replica of the ceramic portable font, which holds the water consecrated for public baptism.The surrounding quilting symbolises the mystical property of the washing away of sins, and the resurrection power of walking in newness of life. THE OIL - CHARISM It was customary for Prophets, Priests and Kings to be anointed with Oil. At Baptism the Sign of the Cross is made upon the forehead with oil, symbolising that God’s favour has been bestowed, and praying that he/she will continue faithful to Christ until life’s end. The Members of Caritas see the purpose of the Baptismal Wall Hanging as an on-going commitment of Christian love. When a child is brought forward for baptism, an embroidered heart bearing the child’s name will be attached to the Baptismal Wall Hanging. After a period of 3 years, the heart will be returned to the family with an invitation for the child to attend the Sunday School. Mrs June Moon was pleased to design and complete the hanging for St John’s as a permanent reminder of the Lord’s great blessings over many years. Download/online Application form |
