The sacrament of rebirth into life in Christ. It is the first of the 3 initiation sacraments into the Church. Through it comes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sin, adoption into God's family, new life in Christ, membership in His body the Church and temples of the Holy Spirit.

"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)

Preparing to Receive.

Infants and Children under age 7
The parents take the responsibility of understanding what is being undertaken. They instruct children at their appropriate understanding. Parents participate in one class of preparation.

Children the age of reason to 18
Participate in regular children/youth catechesis programs along with additional materials explaining the sacrament.

Adults
Participate in Instruction in the Catholic Faith program; attend a New Day in the Spirit retreat, and discern their readiness to commit to living a Christian life and follow the practice of the Catholic faith.

Celebrate

Adults and older children normally receive the sacrament of Baptism at the Easter Vigil.

Younger children and infants may have baptisms scheduled on a Sunday afternoon or occasionally at Sunday Mass.