The sacrament of baptism ushers us into the divine life, cleanses us from sin, and initiates us as members of the Christian community. It is the foundation for the sacramental life.

At baptism, the presider prays over the water:

Father, look now with love upon your Church, and unseal for her the fountain of baptism. By the power of the Holy Spirit give to this water the grace of your Son, so that in the sacrament of baptism all those whom you have created in your likeness may be cleansed from sin and rise to a new birth of innocence by water and the Holy Spirit. (Christian Initiation of Adults, #222A)

Freed from Sin

Baptism frees us from the bondage of original and actual sin. Water is poured in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Today, the sacrament of baptism is often performed on infants shortly after birth. Adult baptisms take place at the Easter Vigil through the restored Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. Adults or children who have been baptized in a valid Christian church are not baptized again in the Catholic church. As we say in the Nicene Creed, “I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins…”

The Catechism teaches:

“The fruit of Baptism, or baptismal grace, is a rich reality that includes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins, birth into the new life by which man becomes an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ, and a temple of the Holy Spirit. By this very fact, the person baptized is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ, and made a sharer in the priesthood of Christ” (CCC 1279).

Baptismal Symbols

– Water – The waters of baptism recall Jesus’ own baptism by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ. We are washed clean of sin.
– Oil – At baptism, we are anointed into the life of Christ as “priest, prophet, and king.” A cross is traced on the candidate’s forehead as a reminder that we are inheritors of the Kingdom of God.
– Light – The baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle that stands in the church as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.
– White garment – The white garment that is placed upon us at baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection. Likewise, the white garment or pall that is placed over the coffin at the time of death recalls our baptismal promises and reminds us that we are destined for eternal life.

While in ordinary circumstances, sacraments in the Catholic Church are administered validly by a member of the ordained clergy, in an emergency situation, the sacrament of baptism can be administered by anyone.

In case of necessity, any person can baptize provided that he has the intention of doing that which the Church does and provided that he pour water on the candidate’s head while saying: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (CCC 1284).

The Process of the Sacrament of Baptism

1. Parish Participation: Parents should be active members of our Parish.
2. Baptismal Registration Form: Parents must complete a Baptism form, which can be obtained in the parish office DOWNLOAD HERE
3. Selecting Godparents: Godparents play a very important role in your child’s spiritual life. They should serve as role models of the faith.

The child should be able to look to their godparent as an example of how the church teaches us to live our Catholic faith. They should support not only the child but you, the parents, as well. Additionally, in their role as godparents, they represent the larger Church community. Therefore, being a godparent is not only an honor; it is a tremendous responsibility. Therefore, the godparents should be carefully chosen. In recognizing the importance of the godparent and their duties, the Church has provided guidelines to help parents choose the best possible godparents for their children. OUR Parish adheres to Canon Law in all aspects of Baptism.

Requirements for Godparents:

– Must be over 16 years of age.
– Must have received all Sacraments of initiation (Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation).
– If married, be married according to the laws of the Catholic Church.
– Must attend Sunday Mass

4. Sponsor Certificates: All Catholic godparents (sponsors) must obtain a sponsorship certificate from their own parish stating that they are members in good standing and are eligible to act as Catholic Sponsors. These certificates should be submitted to our Parish Office after the initial Baptism registration.

Those requesting a Sponsor Certificate for Baptism, or Confirmation from our Parish must be active parishioners, attending Mass. Furthermore, all sponsors must be over 16 years of age, have received all Sacraments of initiation, and, if married, be married according to the laws of the Catholic Church. (See Catechism of the Catholic Church 2042; Code of Canon Law 874.

5. Photographs and video during the ceremony: As our church is a House of God to be respected and cherished, please be sure to refrain from entering the sanctuary and be sure to follow the instructions of the celebrant to ensure that you will get the best pictures while not interfering with the sacred ceremony.
6. Clothing and Candle: A white Christening gown is customary but not required. While the parish will provide the baptismal bib and candle, you are also welcome to provide your own bib and candle as well.