The Sacrament of Baptism

“Holy 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. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission” (CCC 1213). Before so great a gift and mystery, how can the person approaching the Church for Baptism – for oneself or one’s child – be filled with anything but awe and wonder!

Baptism Preparation

New parents are required to meet with the pastor and participate in reviewing the fundamentals of the Sacrament of Baptism before the birth of the child.  To schedule the preparation session with the Pastor, contact the Parish Office during office hours.

THE CATECHISM OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH ON BAPTISM
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) says the sacraments of initiation, including Baptism, “lay the foundations of every Christian life.” (1212) The CCC goes on to say (quoting Pope Paul VI):

The faithful are born anew by Baptism, strengthened by the sacrament of Confirmation, and receive in the Eucharist the food of eternal life. By means of these sacraments of Christian initiation, they thus receive in increasing measure the treasures of the divine life and advance toward the perfection of charity.

In other words, receiving the sacraments of initiation makes a person a Catholic, with all the treasures of the Church available to help him or her get to heaven.

Online Baptism Resources:

US Conference of Catholic Bishops – Baptism

Catechism of the Catholic Church – Baptism