Baptism
Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)
The sacrament of baptism frees us from original sin and brings us into the Church as members of the body of Christ. It gives us access to the other Sacraments.
Baptismal Symbols
Water
Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal where our original sins are washed away and we begin our new life with Christ. In the water of baptism, we remember Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.
Oil
The priest traces a cross on the forehead of the person being baptized to remind that we are being adopted into the kingdom of God. We are anointed into the life of Christ as “priest, prophet and king.”
Light
A baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal candle in the church, which symbolizes Christ's light in the world. This baptismal candle lighting symbolizes receiving the light of Christ, and we are called to share the light with the world.
White Garment
The white garment at baptism symbolizes new life and purity, that the person being baptized is putting on the holiness of Christ. It also symbolizes Christ’s victory over death, and his resurrection.
BAPTISMS IN OUR PARISH
At St. John XXIII, baptisms are performed on the the agreed upon date & time with the priest.
Infant Baptisms:
- Contact the Parish Office to arrange a baptism. There is a preparation period, so we recommend contacting us during pregnancy
- Meet with the priest or Baptism Representative. You will be given a booklet to review on the Baptism Ceremony
- Choose your godparents. Information on godparents' roles is included in your booklet
Older Child/Adult Baptisms:
Baptisms are performed at Easter Vigil
Candidates go through preparation in the RCIA program before being baptized. Click here for more information.
Contact the Parish Office if you are considering being baptized in the Catholic Church
