Baptism

Baptism: A Gateway to Life in Christ

Baptism is the sacrament that welcomes us into the Body of Christ and opens the door to sharing in the life of the Church. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Baptism is given only to those who have never before received this sacrament.

For infants, Baptism is a cherished tradition in the Catholic faith. It ensures the child receives God’s grace and begins their journey of faith with the first sacrament after birth. Parents are encouraged to have their children baptized as soon as possible following birth.

Adults preparing for Baptism take part in a process known as the Catechumenate. During this time, the candidate—called a Catechumen—learns about the mystery of salvation and the practice of the evangelical virtues: purity, prudence, humility, faith, devotion, obedience, poverty, patience, mercy, and sorrow for sin. Through a series of rites, they are gradually introduced to the life of faith, the liturgy, and the charitable mission of God’s people.