The sacrament of baptism is the first of the seven sacraments. Baptism is what makes us a member of the Body of Christ, it is what initiates us as Christians. Being baptized in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit confers grace upon the baptized. As Christians we spend our life unfolding this baptismal grace in how we live and follow God in our life. We are baptized in One God, yet three persons. Baptism is the beginning of our Christian vocation that will call us to conform our life to Christ and live the sacramental life of the Church founded by Jesus himself.
Children who are four years of age and younger may be baptized at various times throughout the year, except during the season of Lent. This type of baptism is referred to as "Infant Baptism." The child not having reached the age of reason, is presented by the Catholic parent(s) for baptism and takes on the responsibility of raising the child in the Catholic faith. The parent publicly renounces sin and professes their faith, as they will share their faith and love of God with their child.
If you would like your child baptized, please follow the steps below.
Once a person reaches the age of reason, it is very important they embrace their faith, knowledge, and love of God as their own as they prepare for their baptism. They will present themselves and journey with others toward the Easter Vigil where these baptisms takeplace in the most important and biggest celebration of the year. The Easter Vigil is the celebration of the resurrection of Christ and is especially marked with the waters of baptism. The preparation programs for this type of baptism are the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults and adapted for children. Click here to learn more about this process.
The Rite of Christian Initiation welcomes children ages 5 (in school) and older and adults inquiring about the Catholic faith. In fact, the first segment of this process is for inquiry purposes only, so one need to make a commitment to become Catholic. Come and ask questions, share with others that are learning about the faith. Discern if God is calling you into to communion in His Church.