Baptism

Infant Baptism

From the earliest time, the Church, to which the mission of preaching the gospel and of baptizing was entrusted, has baptized children as well as adults. Our Lord said: “Unless a man is reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) The Church has always understood these words to mean that children should not be deprived of baptism, because they are baptized in the faith of the Church. This faith is proclaimed for them by their parents and godparents, who represent both the local Church and the whole society of saints and believers: “The Church is at once the mother of all and the mother of each.” (Saint Augustine, Epistle 98, 5: PL 33, 362.)

Baptism, as the first of the sacraments of initiation “is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to the life in the Spirit, and the doorway which gives access to the other sacraments.” Through Baptism a person is freed from sin and begins a faith relationship with the Triune God, being reborn as a child of God. One becomes a member of the Body of Christ – the Church, so that he or she can take on the mission of Christ and the Church to spread the Good News of the Kingdom. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1213.)

Requirements for Baptism

Register in the Parish

For registration at one of our three parishes or another parish and attendance at a pre-baptism class, parents are encouraged to register and take the class before their child is born.

Baptism Preparation Class

Baptism Preparation Class is required for all first time parents. Please call either parish office at 320-352-2196 or 320-254-8218 for a schedule of upcoming classes. Please note, this class is only required for your first born or you if have not attended one previously.

Scheduling the Baptism

Call either office at 320-352-2196 or 320-254-8218 to schedule your child’s Baptism.

Selecting Godparents

Godparents play a very important role in your child’s spiritual life. They should serve as role models of the faith. The child should be able to look to their godparent as an example of how the church teaches us to live our Catholic faith. They should support not only the child but you, the parents as well. Additionally, in their role as godparent, they represent the larger Church community. Being a godparent is not only an honor, it is a tremendous responsibility. Therefore, the godparents should be carefully chosen.

Church Requirements for Godparents

• Must have one Catholic Godparent, in good standing with the Church.
• The Catholic Godparent must be at least 16 years old and godparent must have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
• Must be actively practicing their Catholic faith.

Ordinary Minister

The ordinary ministers of the Sacrament of Baptism are priests and deacons.