The Sacrament of Baptism
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: Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word. (CCC, 1213).
Please choose appropriate Godparent(s): At least one must be 16 years of age, confirmed and a practicing Catholic. If married, must be married in the Catholic Church. If single, must be living a chaste life. Godparents must be registered and active in a parish for a minimum of three months and present a letter documenting activity from their parish.
Baptism/Bautismo: English and Spanish PreBaptismal Classes (children 0-6 years old) are held by appointment only. Parents must be registered and active a minimum of 6 months before the process begins.
News from Pope Francis on Baptism
WHY BAPTIZE CHILDREN?
Pope Francis spoke about the sacrament of Baptism, emphasizing the importance of the Catholic practice of baptizing infants, since the grace of the Holy Spirit helps them to grow in virtue.
“Why baptize a child who does not understand?” the pope asked. “When we baptize a child, the Holy Spirit enters that child, and the Holy Spirit makes... the Christian virtues grow in that child, who will then flourish.”
Though we hope that when a child grows up he or she will understand and desire Baptism for themselves(and they will be confirmed), to withhold the sacrament from a child “means not trusting in the Holy Spirit,” he said.
“We must always give this opportunity to everyone, to all children, to have inside of them the Holy Spirit that will guide them throughout their lives. Do not forget to baptize children!”
Pope Francis also emphasized that the graces of the sacrament are not something one earns through understanding, intelligence, or worthiness, but as pure gift. “Nobody deserves Baptism,” he said, “[it] is always a free gift for everyone, adults and newborns. But as happens for a seed full of life, this gift takes root and bears fruit in earth fed by faith.” (See Pope Francis General audience, 4/11/2018)
For more information please contact the Parish Office at (503) 792-4231.