SACRAMENT OF  BAPTISM

Baptism is a sacrament of initiation, the first and most necessary of all sacraments, for without it, we cannot receive the others. Through this sacrament we are introduced for the first time to Jesus and a special relationship is established. The other two sacraments of initiation are Holy Eucharist and Confirmation.

In the Rite of Baptism we become a Christian, a member of the Church, the people of God. Therefore, we celebrate it as a communal event once every month.

We do not take this gift for granted. It is not something to “get done”. Baptism should not be requested just because a relative is wondering when, if ever, it is going to happen. Parents request baptism because their Faith means something to them and they want their children to share what they have.

It is presumed the Catholic parent or parents practice the Faith. That includes an appreciation for, and attendance at regular Sunday Mass. Otherwise, baptism should be delayed until the parent or parents are prepared to fulfill the obligation of raising their child in the Faith. The parents are the first teachers of their children, and they must also be the best of teachers.

Godparents must be practising Catholics. Only one is required, though it is customary to have two. Should you want a non-Catholic (particularly when there is a mixed marriage), the Catholic is the sponsor and the non-Catholic is the witness.

Arrangements may be made by calling the parish office. You will be invited to the church prior to the date of baptism for a video presentation and further explanation by our Baptismal Team.

How do I arrange the baptism of my baby?

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