Through Baptism one is made a new creature in Christ. The word Baptism comes from the Greek baptizein meaning to plunge or immerse which symbolizes burial into Christ’s death, as well as rising with Him in his Resurrection.
“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.” (CCC 1213)
Baptism for Children
- For infants, the Sacrament of Baptism is administered in the faith of the Church, with parents or legal guardians assuming the responsibility of nurturing the child's faith. Since children under the age of seven do not yet have the ability to understand the meaning of Baptism, their parents or legal guardians are responsible for
- desiring Baptism
- promising to teach them about God and raise them as active members of the Catholic Church
- completing a specific preparation for Baptism
- Baptism Preparation
- Parents are the first and most important teachers of their children in the faith. Our responsibility as a parish community is to support your efforts with a preparation program that is meaningful and helpful to you.
- Godparent requirements – a person is required to have at least one Godparent who meets the following requirements:
- At least 16 years old
- Fully-initiated Catholic (has celebrated Baptism, Confirmation and Communion)
- Practices their Catholic faith
*A baptized non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness in place of one of the godparents.
For more information on Baptism for your child, please select your home parish
Baptism for Adults
- Recognizing their right and ability to take an active role in considering and preparing for this life-changing step, the Church provides a special process called The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) for anyone, ___ years old or older, who wishes to be baptized Catholic.
- If you are interested in baptism for yourself or your child who is older than _______, please contact Anna Flaitz ( 585-663-8000 press 2)
Interested in receiving Baptism as an adult?