What is Baptism?

Baptism is one of the Seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church; frequently called the “first sacrament” as it is the gateway to the rest of the sacraments.

Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God; we become members of the mystical body of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word. (CCC: 1213)”

The Sacrament of Baptism joins a person to Christ’s Church (His Mystical Body) and allows them to receive all other sacraments.  By Baptism, persons are cleansed of both their original sin and personal sin, have punishment for sin remitted, receive sanctifying grace (a share in the divine life), and a special character. 

It is through baptism that we truly become adopted sons and daughters of God, and temples of the Holy Spirit.  

Through this Sacrament, we are truly made anew and become members of the Church. In addition, we receive both the theological and moral virtues and actual grace to assist us in living a moral life. Once baptized, the individual is incorporated into Christ who is Priest, Prophet and King.

The celebration of this Sacrament requires the recitation of the Trinitarian formula (Father, Son and Holy Spirit), water and the intent to baptize. Once incorporated into Christ by Baptism, the person is sealed with the indelible spiritual mark (character). 

Anyone not already validly baptized can and should receive this Sacrament.

If you are an adult who is seeking more information on how to become a member of the Catholic Church, please refer to The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

If you or a family member is interested in registering for Baptism, please click on the button below or scan the QR code.