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SACRAMENTS Sacrament of Baptism
History of the Sacrament: Historically Baptism was administered to adults. As Christianity developed and spread, families were all baptized together and epitaphs on tombs of Christians suggests initiation at a very early age. The ritual for infant baptism changed from immersion to pouring water over the head of the child. Both forms can be used in the Rite of Baptism. Definition of Baptism Baptism is a sacrament that 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 children of God.1 "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word." 2 Procedure for Reception of the Sacrament at St. John's 1. Parents and sponsors need to be properly instructed in the meaning of the sacrament and the obligations. Baptism classes are held each month in the parish.3 2. Call the Faith Formation Office to register for the class. 3. The sponsor/godparent must be a practicing Catholic, at least 16 years of age and confirmed in the Catholic Church. A person of another Christian faith may stand as a witness.4 4. Parents and sponsors should choose a name that is Christian in origin. Knowing the meaning of the name gives importance to the selection of a name. 5. The Baptismal Ceremony is held once a month in a communal gathering on Sunday. (Private baptisms can be held with permission and arrangements made through the parish.) 6. All forms related to the baptism need to be in the Faith Formation Office at least a week before the ceremony. The Sacrament of Baptism is generally celebrated the first Sunday of each month at 12:30 pm in the church chapel. Note: No Baptisms are celebrated during Lent. If the first Sunday falls on a holiday weekend or the Turkey Dinner event, baptism will be held the following Sunday. A Baptism seminar is required for all those parents whose children are baptized at St. John's. Call the Faith Formation office to register for Baptism and the seminar at 651-633-1540. 1 C.C. #1213. 2 Roman Catechism II. 3 Canon 851. 4 Canon 874. |
