Sacrament of Baptism

Holy Cross Parishioner Registation

Baptism is the one sacrament that all Christian denominations share in common. In the Catholic Church, infants are baptized to welcome them into the Catholic faith and to free them from the original sin they were born with. Baptism is the first holy sacrament followed by: Eucharist, Confirmation, Reconciliation, Anointing of the sick, Marriage and Holy Order.

The ritual of baptism in the Catholic Church

Baptisms in the Catholic Church usually take place on Sundays, during the parish Mass or in the early afternoon after all the Masses are over. In most cases, the parish priest or deacon administers the sacrament, anointing the person being baptized with oils, and pouring blessed water over the child or adult’s head not just once but three times.

A person being baptized in the Catholic Church is expected to dress in white to symbolize purity of faith and the cleansing power of Baptism. The white garment symbolizes the white garments Jesus wore when he was placed in the tomb after his death on Good Friday. An infant may wear a baptismal gown handed down for generations; an adult typically puts on a full-length white gown known as an alb.

The baptism ritual is a participatory one, with all attendees rejecting Satan and professing their faith, with parents and of an infant and the godparents and immediate family members of the person being baptized being a bit more involved.

Like the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Sacrament of Holy Orders, as a Catholic, you’re baptized just once. These three sacraments confer an indelible mark on your soul. No one can ever be un-baptized or re-baptized.

Baptismal Preparation

Baptism marks the beginning of our Christian life. Through this sacrament we first participate in the Lord's death & resurrection. From the moment of our baptism, we are called to renew and deepen our share in the Paschal mystery by participating in the Church's liturgy, by daily prayer and works of charity.

The baptismal preparation team meets with parents and godparents and helps prepare them for their roles in the lives of their children through reflections and discussions. Through a series of sessions before and after the baptism, a strong connection is made between the parents and parish community, welcoming both them and their children into our parish family.

For anyone interested in joining this team, please call the parish office. Baptisms are held on Sundays as required. The commitment from the team is one meeting with the parents and godparents and attendance to assist at the ceremony.

If you are a parent who wishes to have their child baptized, please contact the office.

Suitable for Teens 13 and up

Sacrament of Baptism

Holy Cross Parishioner Registation

The ritual of baptism in the Catholic Church

Original Sin

Recognizing the role of godparents

Baptismal Preparation