Carmel Bulletin, 13 September 2015
Fr Paul is currently sharing with everyone the design concept for the renewal of our church. One feature of this design is the provision of a new fixed, dignified space for the celebration of baptism.
The font should be free-standing so that the family and ministers can gather around it. It should be visible to the assembly who will frequently participate in the celebration of baptism. The font located in the midst of the liturgical assembly speaks of the common priesthood of the faithful…
And when churches are to be built (national guidelines for the building of churches), article 394
Locating the baptistery at the intersection of the church aisles will make it clearly visible, and provide space for the celebration of the sacrament, and for those participating in baptism celebrations to sit to stand near the font (aided also by some reconfiguration of seating). At the Easter Vigil, the elect will be baptised in the midst of the Church into which they are being initiated; the Church that shares in Christ’s death and resurrection and thus also in the priestly duty of offering sacrifice and praying to God for the needs of humanity.
Baptism is the first sacrament, the way by which people enter the Catholic Church. The font will be clearly visible from each entrance, and those entering the church are led directly to the font.
A clear relationship between the font and the church entrance expresses the fact that this sacrament of Christian initiation brings the baptised person into the Church which celebrates the liturgy.
And when churches are to be built, article 395
You can read and view more about the design concept in the parish centre and at www.olmcwenty.org.au/churchrenewal
Liturgy 