“Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.” —John 3:5
For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is one of God’s greatest gifts and it is a time for celebration and great joy! In Baptism, we are marked as a child of God and offered the gift of salvation, initiation into the Christian community, and the beginning of life in Jesus Christ. This sacrament of initiation opens the door to the other sacraments, with Eucharist and Confirmation completing the initiation process.
When do we celebrate Baptisms at St. Vincent de Paul?
Baptisms are celebrated either within any of the weekend Masses (Saturday Vigil or Sunday Masses) or outside of Mass following the Sunday Noon Mass. Please specify which option you prefer on your Baptismal Questionnaire form. If necessary, Baptisms may be able to be celebrated after Masses other than the Noon Mass.
How do I get my child baptized?
Congratulations on the birth of your son or daughter! What a miracle he or she is!
Please complete the following form below (page 2) and have your Godparent(s) complete their respective form also.
If you have not attended a Baptism class within the last 6 years then you will also need to register for the Baptism preparation sessions. We cannot schedule the Baptism date until after the classes have been completed.
If you do not need to attend the classes then simply complete the below forms. Remember the date you specify for your child’s baptism is only a request and has to be confirmed first with the Priest or Deacon’s schedule. Please wait to announce the Baptism date to family and friends until the Priest or Deacon has confirmed that he is able to perform the Baptism on the date you specify. The recommended stipend for the clergy performing your Baptism is $50 but if this is a financial hardship then you may pay whatever, if any, amount you are able to.
When are Baptism preparation sessions?
In preparation for infant baptism, parents are required to attend two Baptismal classes. Godparents are encouraged to attend but not required.
Parents are encouraged to fulfill this obligation either prior to or after the birth of their baby. These classes are scheduled according to demand. To attend one of these sessions, both husband and wife must complete the following form:
Baptism Class Questionnaire
Are you an Adult interested in getting baptized?
If you are an adult and are interested in being Baptized, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which interested adults are gradually introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and way of life. The RCIA begins every Fall before Labor Day and adult Baptisms occur at the Easter Vigil. To register for the RCIA program please contact Greg at gregmhenkel@gmail.com or 740-392-4711 x104 . For more information on the RCIA process, click here
“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other Sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.” —Catechism of the Catholic Church #1213
