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
Parents must request the Baptism of their infants at least two months prior to the anticipated date of Baptism. The Baptism of infants is normally celebrated on Sunday immediately after the 10:30 a.m. Mass. New parents are required to take part in a three-session preparation program conducted in the Parish. It is better to complete participating in the program before the birth of the child.
BAPTISM PREPARATION SESSIONS
Ideally Baptism Preparation should be attended prior to the birth of the baby. To register for the session contact the Pastor 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: