Baptism

What is Baptism?

Baptism, the sacrament—the outward, physical sign manifesting a divine action; an inward grace—by which we both embrace and are embraced by the redemption won for us by Christ. Through Baptism, we enter into “heavenly” life, that is, life with God. The word baptism is Greek and means to “plunge” or “immerse” (CCC 1214). Baptism is the “door” or “gateway” to a spiritual life in Christ. Through Baptism, one is freed from Original sin and all past sins, reborn as an adopted child of God, initiated into the Church, and “bonded” to other Christians. In Baptism, the stain of Original sin and all of the sins accumulated since birth are washed away. Through the sanctifying grace that comes from being baptized, one is strengthened against sin and protected from death.

Why do Catholic Christians get Baptized?

Christians are baptized first and foremost because it is the sign that Christ established for becoming his disciple and participating in the victory over sin that he won for us: “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 Christians are baptized in order to begin a permanent relationship with God. It is the first step in a journey towards the paradise that God our Father has prepared for us. 

What now?

If your child (less than 7 years of age) has not received Baptism, you, as the parent(s), are requested to contact the parish office and leave your name and phone number so that the Baptismal coordinator can make contact and help arrange class time for the Baptismal preparation. This class is not for the child, but for the parent(s) and Godparent(s), so that you might realize the responsibility you are assuming in raising your child as a Catholic Christian.

The class discusses the deeper meaning of the Baptismal commitment. It reviews the symbols of Baptism as well as what these symbols represent. In addition, there is a small history of Baptism and how and why some of the changes have happened over the years. Lastly, there is a scriptural reflection as well as the Church statements to help the family focus deeper into the meaning of Baptism and Catholic parenting.

The Baptism coordinator teaches the class for Baptism on the first Saturday of each month in the Parish Office. The actual Baptism takes place on the fifth weekend of each month in the months wherein there are five Sundays. There are no Baptisms during Lent. Adult Baptism usually takes place once a year at the Easter Vigil.

Want more information on baptism?

For more details on the class, please contact the St. Thomas the Apostle Parish Office at 530-533-0262