Baptism

 


 
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), 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 and in the word."

-Catechism of the Catholic Church

Our Parish Baptismal Policy

What is Baptism?

Baptism is an external sign celebrating the entrance of a person into the Christian community as well as into a particular parish family.  Baptism celebrates a new life of faith and initiates the person into a lifestyle of worship, religious education and service to the community.

Requirements for Baptism

Parents wishing to have a child baptized must be a registered member of St. Luke Catholic Church.  Please pick up a Baptism Information Packet in the Parish Office.

Parents must be interviewed by Fr. Paul, our Pastor, before attending the "Baptism Instruction Class", which is held on the third Monday of every month at 7:00 pm.  The class takes place in the St. Frances Building and  the suggested offering for Baptism is $50.00, and also the Baptism Form, which is the last page of the Baptism Information Packet before they can sign up for a Baptism Instruction Class.  Both parents should attend this class, however, only one parent is necessary.  Godparents are also encouraged to attend this class if they live close by.

Baptisms are held on Saturdays.  Baptisms will not take place during Lent.

Parental Responsibilities

By Church requirement, parents must give their assurance that the child will be given every benefit of Catholic upbringing.  The responsibility of raising the child in the ways of the faith begins immediately with Baptism and extends all the way to adulthood.

If parents are not able to make this commitment to the Church community, they should consider delaying the celebration of baptism until they are prepared to undertake these responsibilities.

Choosing Godparents

One of the Godparents must be a practicing Catholic.  The other one may be a member of another church, providing he/she practices their faith.  A letter from the pastor of their parish will be needed.   

For more information about the Sacrament of Baptism, please contact the Parish Office at 786-3648.