The Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Baptism washes away original sin and incorporates one into the body of Christ. It is received only once in one's lifetime; it is not a repeatable moment. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.
How To Plan Your Baby's Baptism
Baptism is an important first step and milestone in your baby’s spiritual life. There is a lot to consider to make this sacrament a pleasant experience.
Sacrament of Baptism
Having a baby baptized is both an act of faith and a cultural affair. It is both a statement of trust in the goodness of God as well as a family event that can be faith-filled.
Common Questions - Baptism
Saving waters that bring the Holy Spirit and welcomes Catholics into the Church.
Yes, in fact we recommend doing so.
There are two to three meetings required before an infant is baptized. Older child/adult baptisms usually require months of preparation and may require other courses like Catechism (PREP) and RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).
The Rite of Baptism indicates that it should be celebrated in a parish church. We do not celebrate baptisms outside of a church, except in cases of family illness or emergencies.
The Church asks that a child have at least one Catholic godparent who is baptized, confirmed, and living his/her faith. The other godparent, formally known as a sponsor, may be a “Christian witness” who need not be Catholic. Someone may “stand in” (act as a proxy) for a godparent who is not able to be present at the Baptism.