Baptism

Baptism marks the entry of the believer into the Christian community. It is the first Sacrament of Initiation, leading to the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

Through Baptism we are freed from sin and welcomed as sons and daughters into God’s family, brothers and sisters to Jesus Christ. Through grace we enter into a personal relationship with God and begin a journey whose final destination is eternal life.  Baptism leaves us permanently changed, no longer the person we once were, but a new person, dying to death and sin, and rising to new life in Christ. In the words of St. Paul, "We were buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so too may we live a new life." (Romans 6:4)

Baptism Preparation for Infants and Young Children

If you would like to have your child baptized please do the following:

1. Call the parish office at 457-6603 and speak with Marie Martin. She will explain the process and schedule your sacramental preparation meetings ( A 3 part class using the Reborn Series from the Augustine Institute). Baptisms will be scheduled after completion of classes, receipt of forms and consultation with the pastor.
2. Fill out the Baptism Registration Form and the Parish Registration Form if you are not yet registered as a parishioner at St. Raphael’s.
3. When filling out the form please choose at minimum one godparent that is at least 16 years of age, Confirmed in the Catholic Church and living a life of faith.

• Normally baptisms are scheduled during weekend Mass in order to welcome the child into the parish community. Baptisms outside of Mass are possible as well, dependent upon the celebrant’s schedule.
• Parishioners wishing to be Godparents should fill out and submit the Sponsorship Elgibility Form for Baptism to the Office. The completed form must be signed by a priest to confirm eligibility. Godparents must meet all eligibility requirements listed on the form. Godparents from other parishes should provide a certificate from their home parish for baptisms that will take place at Saint Raphael. Being a godparent is not an honorary title. It comes with substantial responsibilities. Ideally, sponsors connect with their godchild regularly in a caring and affirming way that gives witness to God’s love.

Baptism for Children of Catechetical Age

• Children aged 7 or older may participate in a process called the Children’s Catechumenate which is the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults adapted for Children. The Children’s Catechumenate culminates at the Easter Vigil with the reception of Baptism, First Holy Communion and in some cases, Confirmation.  Our parish staff are available to answer any questions you may have.

Baptism Preparation for Adults

• For any adults who have not already been Baptized in to the Christian faith, receiving the Sacrament of Baptism is part of becoming Catholic. Click here for detailed information on that process, which is called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults.