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 Baptism Policy
Requirements for the Celebration of Baptism By Church law, a priest can only celebrate the baptism of persons who are registered in his parish. For an infant or child, the family must be registered. For families from other parishes who wish to have the baptism take place here, a letter of permission from their home parish is required. Parents must receive religious instruction ("catechesis") from the Church concerning the responsibilities of Catholic parenting. We offer this instruction at Immaculate Conception and parents are required to participate. Baptismal dates are scheduled only after the catechesis is completed. This helps to avoid postponements due to complications that prevent parents from being able to attend the scheduled catechesis.
About 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.
About Choosing Godparents
Godparents are chosen by the birth parents to assist them in their Christian parenting. They should, therefore, be models of Christian faith and examples of prayer, worship and Christian practice. The Church does not require two godparents. When there are two, however, there can be only one godmother and one godfather. Only one of the godparents needs to be a Catholic. The other must, however, be of the Christian faith and be active in that faith. The Catholic godparent(s) need to have been confirmed and be practicing members of the Church.
When are Baptisms Celebrated?
Baptisms are offered by appointment only by contacting the Parish Office. A group Baptismal Ceremony takes place once a month, typically on the third Sunday. Occasionally, baptisms are also celebrated during Sunday Mass, which allows the entire faith community to celebrate with you. Schedules are available through the Parish Office, although no date will be set until completion of the baptismal catechesis.