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Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching
themto observe all that I have commanded you.
Matthew 28:19-20 -
Baptism In The Catholic Church
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation into the Catholic Church. Through Baptism, individuals are received as members of Christ and his Church. Children and Adults being baptized are purified from their sins and enter into a new life in Christ through the Holy Spirit.
The baptized are robed in white and receive the light from the Pascal Candle. These two symbolize a new life in Christ and a shared mission to be the light of the world. At the Easter Vigil, the faithful renew their baptismal promises for a continued growth in the faith.
Sponsors are a necessary part of the continued conversion of the baptized. The faith sealed in the hearts of the Baptized must be continually nourished to grow more perfectly. Sponsors are given the mission, with help of family and the church, to support the spiritual growth of the baptized.
At the beginning of His public life, Christ Jesus allowed himself to be baptized by St. John the Baptist in the River Jordan. The Holy Spirit descended on Christ showing the new creation which was to come. It was at that moment that God the Father revealed Christ as his “beloved Son.” Christ sent his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, creating disciples of all nations. It is through Baptism that the faithful, of all backgrounds, become one universal church, one body in Christ. -
Baptismal Process
Infant Baptism
Parents and Sponsors must be properly instructed in the meaning of the sacrament and the obligations attached to it. It is necessary that there be a well-founded hope that the infant will be brought up in the Catholic religion.
Adult Baptism
It may be most appropriate to participate in the OCIA process. Through the OCIA process, adults entering into the Catholic Church will be on a path to receive all the Sacraments of Initiation. The time frame is based on the spiritual readiness of the adult seeking to join the church. Baptism is a Sacrament that can only be received once. In most cases, if the adult has been baptized in a different denomination and in the name of the Holy Trinity, the Baptism may be recognized as valid.
Sponsors
Note that there are very specific requirements that must be met for someone to be a sponsor. BEFORE you select a Baptism Sponsor, contact your parish for more information.
For more information on your sacramental questions, please contact your parish office. -
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