The Sacrament of Baptism is the basis for the Christian life. In the waters of Baptism, we die with Christ so as to rise with Him. Cleansed from sin, we gain entry to the life of grace enjoyed by the sons and daughters of God. We are permanently claimed for Christ and, as members of the Church which is His body, we receive a share in His mission.
Baptism is the first sacrament, and it has been celebrated in the Church since her origin on the day of Pentecost. Anyone who has not already been baptized may receive the Sacrament of Baptism. Adults, as well as children of catechetical age (about 7 or older), who seek Baptism participate in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). Children are baptized on the faith of their parents and with the support of the Christian community. When parents present their children to be baptized, they profess their own faith and accept the serious responsibility to be the primary teachers of the faith for their children, by word and example.
It is the normal practice, according to our Catholic tradition, to baptize infants shortly after birth. Parents are encouraged to contact the parish office prior to their child’s birth to arrange for their Baptism.
The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated by appointment only, on Sundays at
1:30 pm (not during Lent). Please contact Colleen Donahue:
colleen@
Parents who are having their first child baptized are required to attend a Baptism Preparation Session in advance. This will be arranged when you call to schedule the Baptism. Godparents are encouraged, but not required, to attend as well.
Godparents serve as the primary supporters of Christian parents in handing on the faith to their children. This is a responsibility that the Church takes seriously. Therefore, those who serve as Godparents are asked to provide a certificate from their parish certifying that they meet the following requirements:
-They must be fully initiated Catholics (having received Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist);
-They must be actively practicing their faith as members of a parish (regular Mass attendance, etc.); and,
-They must be in good standing with the Church (in particular, if married, their marriage must be recognized by the Church as a valid marriage).
If you have any questions or concerns about who may serve as a Godparent, please contact the parish office and ask to speak with one of the priests.