Baptism

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Baptism

"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." Matthew 28:19

Following the example of Jesus Christ, the Catholic Church baptizes every new member. Christians receive the Sacrament of Baptism only once, but once is enough; it is a unique and truly life-changing experience.

The water we see and the prayers we hear during the celebration are more than symbols. In the water and the prayers, God pours out His grace – His loving assistance – for the individual. Through Baptism, God establishes a new and everlasting relationship. The baptized becomes an adopted son or daughter of God and member of God’s Church. Baptism also washes away all traces of sin and strengthens the individual to live a good and moral life.

The Church calls its new members (or their parents and godparents on their behalf) to respond with faith and to lead a life that reflects their faith. Giving thanks to God, a Christian participates in the life of the Church and seeks to deepen his/her relationship with God every day.

If you would like to learn more, or to have your child baptized, please contact your local parish.

Any person over the age of seven who is interested in becoming Catholic is invited to participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). To learn more, visit our page about becoming Catholic.