The Sacrament of Baptism

Baptism serves as the first sacrament one receives when entering the Catholic Faith. It is a sacrament of initiation (which you can only receive one time), meaning once you received it, you officially enter into the body of Christ, the Catholic Church. The recipient receives justifying and sanctifying grace when baptized, and the Holy Spirit begins to dwell within them. It is intended to cleanse away original sin and symbolize rebirth in Christ, recalling His baptism by John the Baptist. It is defined as the ceremony that initiates a child (or adult) into the Catholic faith and membership into the church, the holy body of the people of Christ.
An example of the Liturgy of this Sacrament

Requirements for Baptism

As an Infant

  1. Children from birth until generally their 4th – 7th birthday.
  2. All children who are baptized must have at least one godparent that is baptized Catholic.
  3. With at least one parent that is baptized in the Catholic faith.
  4. The parents must intend to raise the child in the Catholic Faith,
  5. Each parent must also generally attend a Baptism Preparation Seminar.

Above the Age of Reason

  1. The age of reason and freely choose to be baptised.
  2. Least one godparent that is baptized Catholic.
  3. The candidate must intend to remain in the Catholic Faith,
  4. Each candidate must also generally attend a Baptism Preparation Seminar.

Scriptures

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 (Mt 28:19)

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and they asked Peter and the other apostles, “What are we to do, my brothers?” Peter (said) to them, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the holy Spirit.”
(Acts 2:37-38)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long after the birth of a child should the Baptism take place?
This is a personal choice; however, if both parents are Catholic, it should happen as soon as possible after birth.
Must we give our child the name of a saint to be baptized?
A saint’s name is not a requirement. And sadly, that we need to point out, but baptismal name that is offensive to Christians is not permitted
Can a baptized non-Catholic be a godparent?
Yes. Such a person is known as a Christian witness. The Christian witness must be at least 16 years old, a validly baptized Christian, living an upright life.
Can a non-baptized person (i.e. a Jewish or Muslim person) be a godparent?
No. they cannot be a non-Catholic because of the duties of a godparent to assist the child’s parents in passing on the Christian faith. At the celebration of the sacrament parents and godparents are asked to profess publicly their faith in God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. If the person wishes to convert to Christianity in the Catholic Church, then their own reception of baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist must take place prior to the child’s baptism.
What are the duties of parents and godparents?
In infant baptism the godparent, together with the parents, presents the child for baptism and helps the baptized to lead the Christian life in harmony with baptism and to fulfill faithfully the obligations connected with it
Do both parents have to be Catholic?
No, the Church only requires that one parent be an actively practicing Catholic. The Catholic parent needs to intend to raise the child in the Catholic faith. The spouse of a different faith needs to be clearly informed about that promise.
Whats the difference between Baptism and Christening
This varies depending on one’s faith, Christening is a ceremony in which a name is given to a child and he is then baptized.
What are the Requirements of a God Parent
  • Must be a Catholic who is baptized and confirmed
  • Must be 16 years of age
  • Must regularly practice the faith
  • Must have undergone their own Baptism, Holy Eucharist, and Confirmation.
  • The candidate cannot be a parent, stepparent or guardian of the one they are looking to represent, nor their spouse.