Sacrament of Baptism

“Baptism is God's most beautiful and magnificent gift....We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God's Lordship”. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1216

 

Parents wishing to have a child baptized must attend the parish Baptism Instruction class, unless they have had another child baptized within the last two years. Baptism is celebrated at St. Francis de Sales during the 12 Noon Mass on the 1^st Sunday of the month by one of the priests, or after Mass on the 4^th Sunday of the month, when they are usually celebrated by one of the parish Deacons.  Having a child baptized is a serious commitment and should be entered into very carefully. The promises that parents and Godparents make must be lived every day. For example:

 

Ø      Parents must be willing to attend Holy Mass with their child every Sunday

Ø      Parents must teach their children the Faith at home

Ø      Parents must teach their children to pray

Ø      Parents must share their personal Faith

Ø      Parents must be willing to give their child a Catholic education through the parish school, Catholic High School, or the PSR program. Details of these programs can be found under the Catholic Ed link on this site.

These are not options. They are the responsibilities of every Catholic parent.