New Baptism
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Baptism: A Joyful Beginning of Life in Christ
We are happy to welcome you as you consider Baptism for your child or for yourself.
St. Gregory Nazianzen (c. 330-c. 390) refers to “the grace and power of baptism … a purification of the sins of each individual, and a complete cleansing from all the bruises and stains of sin.” It’s “the best and strongest of all aids.”
Regarding infant baptism, he writes, “Have you an infant child? Do not let sin get any opportunity, but let him be sanctified from his childhood.” He calls baptism “the blessing of cleansing and perfection,” the “foundation of our new life” and “regeneration from the Holy Spirit,” as well as “the key of the Kingdom of heaven,” and “the remodeling of the whole man.”
Baptism is a joyful and sacred moment, not only for your family, but for our entire parish community.
Through this sacrament, we celebrate God’s love and welcome a new member into the family of the Church. St. Francis Xavier Parish is honored to walk with you at the beginning of this faith journey.
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What Is Baptism?
Baptism is the first sacrament of Christian life and the gateway to all other sacraments. Through water and the Holy Spirit, we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, and incorporated into the Body of Christ, the Church.
In Baptism:
We encounter God’s loving mercy in a personal way.
Original sin and personal sin are forgiven.
We receive sanctifying grace and become united with Christ and His Church. (CCC 1213–1219)
Baptism “makes us a new creature, an adopted son or daughter of God” and marks us forever with the sign of faith. (CCC 1272)
Want to go deeper? Look at The Ultimate Guide to Catholic Baptism
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Preparation
Preparation for Baptism is required. This preparation helps parents and godparents understand the meaning of the sacrament and their responsibilities in nurturing the faith of the baptized.
Baptism preparation is offered in the preferred language of the family:
English
Spanish
Portuguese
To begin the Baptism process or to receive more information, please contact the Parish Office.
Our staff will be happy to guide you through the next steps and answer any questions you may have.
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The Role of ParentsParents are the primary teachers of faith for their children.
By requesting Baptism, parents commit to raising their child in the Catholic faith through prayer, participation in the sacraments, and active life in the Church community (CCC 1251).
For this reason, the Church asks that at least one parent be a practicing Catholic and that there is a sincere intention to raise the child in the Catholic faith.The Role of GodParents:
Spiritual Companions
Godparents (also called sponsors) stand with parents as spiritual companions and witnesses to the faith. According to the Catechism, godparents:
“…must be firm believers, able and ready to help the newly baptized — child or adult — on the road of Christian life. Their task is a truly ecclesial function…” (CCC 1255)
Being a sponsor means more than attending the Baptism — it means supporting the baptized person’s life of faith, prayer, and virtue for years to come.
Basic eligibility for godparents (according to Church law and practice):
At least 16 years old
Fully initiated Catholic (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist)
Leads a life in harmony with the Catholic faith
If married, be married at the Catholic Church
Can not be a parent of the child being baptized
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