"I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit"
Infant Baptism
Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the first and basic sacrament of Christian initiation. Â It is usually conferred by immersion and by pouring water three times on the recipient's head, while reciting the baptismal formula: "I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19). The sacrament frees the recipient from original and all personal sins, and from the punishment due to them. In Baptism the person shares in the Trinitarian life of God as part of a community of faith. Baptism is the foundation of communion between all Christians.
Requirements
- Parents must be registered parishioners.
- Completion of a Baptism Preparation Class.
- Selection of eligible Catholic Godparents.​
Who can be a godparent for infant baptism?
A godparent must be a practicing Catholic, at least 16 years of age, and must have received Confirmation and live in accordance with the teachings of the Church. Your child's godparent should support them in authentic Christian formation! Only one godparent is required, though two may be chosen (one male and one female).
When should we take the prep class?
It is recommended to take the Baptism prep course as soon as a family intends to Baptize their child or knows they are expecting a child. It is recommended to take the course during pregnancy, if possible.
How soon should we baptize our baby?
"The Church and the parents would deny a child the priceless grace of becoming a child of God were they not to confer Baptism shortly after birth" (CCC 1250).
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For further reference, please see the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213-1284
Baptism contacts
Mary, Help of Christians
Contact: Julie Sewell | jsewell@smafp.org | 937-878-8353
Sacred Heart
Contact: Luz Maria Perez | lperez@smafp.org | 937-845-3121 | Bilingual
St. Augustine, St. Brigid, & St. Paul
Contact: Taryn Peters | tpeters@smafp.org | 937-372-3222
St. Luke
Contact: Marika Zimmerman | mzimmerman@smafp.org | 937-426-1733, xt. 6301