Baptism 

“No one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit." – John 3:5

 

Adult, infant, and child baptisms, which celebrate the initiation into the Christian community, require special preparation.

Baptismal Symbols

• Water – The waters of baptism recall Jesus’ own baptism by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ. We are washed clean of sin.
• Oil – At baptism we are anointed into the life of Christ as “priest, prophet and king.” A cross is traced on the candidate’s forehead as a reminder that we are inheritors of the Kingdom of God.
• Light – The baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle that stands in the church as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.
• White garment – The white garment that is placed upon us at baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection. Likewise, the white garment or pall that is placed over the coffin at the time of death recalls our baptismal promises and reminds us that we are destined for eternal life.

Unbaptized children six years old or older must be enrolled in the Family Catechesis Religious Education program and will involve a two-year process. This prepares them to be received into the Catholic Church through the reception of Baptism and the Eucharist. Please contact the Director of Religious Education, Rayito, by calling the Parish Office or via email at [email protected].
Exceptions can be made for children whose involvement in a similar program in another parish was interrupted by a transfer to Holy Angels Parish.  

Adults will usually be baptized after participation in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This is a program led by lay faithful that includes various stages of discernment, leading to sacramental initiation through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil Mass Celebration. 

The process is designed for individuals who have never been baptized. Those who were baptized in other churches and baptized Catholics who have not yet received Confirmation and the Eucharist are also welcome to participate. Please visit our RCIA page for more information on who to contact.