Sacraments Of Baptism and Christian Initiation
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Baptism is the first and foundation of all the sacraments. We cannot receive the other sacraments until we first receive baptism. Baptism is conferred upon a person (infant, child or adult) by the pouring of water over the head three times with the minister proclaiming, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Baptism does three primary things for us:
- It heals the wound of original sin (a spiritual “genetic defect” passed down to all people making it difficult at times for us to know God, to know God’s will and to make good and healthy decisions in our lives).
- It gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit. After baptism, the Holy Spirit (God’s life and Spirit) begins to live within us—to guide and strengthen us throughout life.
- It makes us members of God’s family, the Church. With baptism, we become God’s daughters and sons and are invited to receive the fullness of the blessings and gifts God wishes to give to his people.
Baptism is conferred by a deacon or priest (or anyone in the case of an emergency).
For an infant baptism the parents must be actively practicing the Catholic faith.
Sponsor information: For a person to be a “Sponsor” at Baptism or Confirmation, that person must be at least 16 years old, a confirmed Catholic, and in good standing. “Good standing” means to be attending Mass weekly, the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly, an active member of a parish. If the sponsor is married, the marriage must be validated in the Catholic Church. If there are two sponsors, they must be male and female.
There is only a requirement for one (1) sponsor: An active, baptized Christian from another faith may act as a “Non-Catholic Witness” to the baptism, and assume the role of godparent. However, there is still a requirement for a Sponsor. If the Sponsor is not from the Church of the Baptism, they would need a “Sponsor certificate” from their own Pastor to verify that they meet all the requirements of Baptism.
Anyone wishing for more information please contact the Rectory Office: Phone: 814-723-4222
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ORDER OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
As always, we are overjoyed to welcome new members into our parish family! If you live in the Warren County Area and are interested in joining a welcoming group of people living and growing in faith in Christ, please reach out to the parish office at (814) 723-4222 x19.
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