Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life and the journey of discipleship. It is the gateway to the Sacramental life of Christians. In Baptism a person’s life is united to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:3-11), and in this union any responsibility for sin, original or actual, is forgiven. Baptism frees us from sin and makes us members of the Church, able to engage and share in the proclamation of Christ for the world (see also CCC #1213 ff.).
Infant Baptism
When a family wishes to have an infant Baptized at Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church the following are the four steps necessary:
Parents must request the Sacrament for their Children. It is the primary role of the parents to request the Sacrament of Baptism for their children. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, even nannies may have a desire to ensure that a child is Baptized, but it must be the parent who requests that a child receive this Sacrament.
To make such a request, please call the Parish Office who will establish an initial/introductory meeting with the deacon. At this meeting the parents will complete the necessary forms about their family, and the child(ren) to receive the Sacrament.
Take the Baptismal Preparation Class. This class is required for the parents and the godparents invited. The class teaches about the meaning of Baptism, the role and importance of the family in faith development, and the basic beliefs of the Catholic faith.
Have the godparents complete the required paperwork and return it no later than 2 weeks prior to the Baptism.
Celebrate the Baptism. In our parish Baptisms are normally held on Sundays after the 9:30am or 11:30am Masses. Other arrangements can be made if necessary.
Adult Baptism
Individuals who are aged 8 & older are treated as adults in the Catholic Church and are required to take a different style of education in order to be Baptized. Adults aged 18+ will follow a process called the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), and is also known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Please call the Parish Office for further information.