Baptism is one of the three sacraments of Christian initiation, along with the sacraments of the Eucharist and Confirmation. Baptism brings us into the Body of Christ and membership in the Catholic Church. Through our Baptism we are called to be disciples of Christ and enter into the work of Christ in the world.
Baptism is the first sacrament where you become united with Christ and the Church – no other sacrament can be received without it. A priest performs this rite by immersing the baptismal candidate into water, therefore cleansing their original sin through water and the word. The candidate traditionally wears white garments, a candle is lit and they are anointed with sacred chrism. This is the first step in your relationship with God and Christ. Usually this takes place when the candidate is a baby, however, it’s never too late and you’re never too old to begin your journey with God. It’s common to have a baptism celebration with friends and family afterwards and give the child baptism keepsakes that will help them grow in their faith.
- “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19
- “And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Mark 1:9-11
- “And they said, Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.” Acts 16:31, 33
At Saint Peter Parish, the Baptism of children (under the age of seven) should be arranged in advance by contacting the parish. If you have not been baptized or were baptized in another faith tradition, and are interested in Baptism in the Catholic Church, please see the RCIA Process on the Adult Faith Formation page. Our RCIA process invites individuals into the Catholic Church.
As well, if you are not Catholic or are Catholic and have not received the sacraments of Eucharist or Confirmation, please see the RCIA Process.