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 children of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission. (Cathechism of the Catholic Church, 1213)
Once baptized, a person becomes a member not just of their parish, but of the whole Catholic church worldwide.
Baptism Preparation Classes
Baptism Preparation Classes are offered at local parishes. Call your local parish office, or talk to the priest and he can give you the details or direct you to the person who runs the classes.
The Archdiocese helps by offering training and resources to people who volunteer to teach Baptism Preparation classes:
- Archdiocesan Standards For Preparing Children And Youth For The Sacraments (PDF, see especially pages 61-72.)
- Archdiocesan Sacramental Standards Additional Resources (PDF, primarily for teachers)
In the case of adults who are considering becoming Catholic, the preparation program is called Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.
Baptism Celebrations
Parishes celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism whenever it makes sense depending on the parish’s size, location, and so on. Baptisms in the Catholic Church usually take place on Sundays, during the Mass or in the early afternoon after all the masses are over. Some smaller parishes may celebrate baptisms at particular times. In most cases, the parish priest or deacon administers the sacrament, anointing the person being baptized with oils, and pouring blessed water over their head three times as he says the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”
For more information, please contact your local Parish Office.