Baptism

Baptism

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)

About Baptism

Baptism is the first of the sacraments and the foundation of the Christian life. Through the waters of Baptism, a person is freed from sin, reborn as a child of God, and incorporated into Christ and His Church.

By Baptism we receive new life in the Holy Spirit and become members of the Body of Christ. It is the gateway to the other sacraments and the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith, discipleship, and participation in the life of the Church.

Baptism at St. Patrick

For children age 6 and under, parents must bring the child’s birth certificate in order to attend the Baptism class.

Baptism preparation classes are required for parents and godparents. Classes are held in the church basement.

Class Information

Spanish Baptism classes are offered on the first Sunday of each month from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

English Baptism classes are scheduled as needed through the parish office.

How to Begin

1
✉ Contact the Parish Office
Reach out to begin the Baptism process and receive guidance on the next steps.
2
📄 Bring the Birth Certificate
For children age 6 or younger, please bring the child’s birth certificate to class.
3
📖 Attend the Baptism Class
Parents and godparents are asked to attend the required Baptism preparation class.
4
⛪ Schedule the Baptism
The parish office will help you complete the process and arrange the Baptism date.

Adults Seeking Baptism

Adults who wish to be baptized in the Catholic Church ordinarily prepare through OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. This process includes prayer, instruction, and spiritual preparation for entering fully into the life of the Church.

Common Questions About Baptism

Why is Baptism necessary?
Baptism frees us from sin, makes us children of God, and incorporates us into the Church. Jesus himself taught that Baptism is necessary for salvation: “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5)
Why do Catholics baptize infants?
Baptism is a gift of grace, not something earned by personal decision. From the earliest centuries the Church has baptized infants so that they may receive new life in Christ and grow in the faith given to them by God. Scripture also records entire households being baptized (Acts 16:15; Acts 16:33; 1 Corinthians 1:16).
Can someone be baptized more than once?
No. Baptism leaves a permanent spiritual mark on the soul and can only be received once.
What makes a baptism valid?
For Baptism to be valid, natural water must be used while the minister says: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” If this form and intention are present, the baptism is valid even if it is performed outside the Catholic Church.
What is required for a child to be baptized?
Parents must consent to the baptism and there must be a founded hope that the child will be raised in the Catholic faith. Suitable godparents are also chosen to help the parents in this responsibility.