The Sacrament of Baptism


" Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit..." Matthew 28:19:20


In the Catholic Church, Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation, the "door of the Church" and the foundation for all other sacraments. This sacred ritual cleanses the recipient of original sin, welcomes them into the Christian faith and the Church, and establishes a permanent bond with Christ. Through Baptism, we are incorporated into the Body of Christ, receive new life in the Holy Spirit, and are called to a life of faith and discipleship. 


What Baptism Signifies:

  • Washing away original sin: Baptism frees us from the original sin inherited from Adam and Eve.
  • Incorporation into Christ: It unites us with Christ and His Church, making us members of the Mystical Body of Christ.
  • New life in the Holy Spirit: Baptism signifies a rebirth into a new life with Christ.
  • Permanent relationship: The effects of Baptism are permanent; a validly baptized person is marked forever and cannot be rebaptized.


How Baptism is Performed:

The central act of Baptism involves water, either by pouring or immersion, over the person's head, accompanied by the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The sacred Chrism (oil), candles, and white garments are often used to symbolize new life, light, and purity.


Who Can Be Baptized:

  • Infants: The Catholic Church baptizes infants, believing they can be cleansed of original sin and welcomed into the Church. The parents celebrate their faith by accepting the responsibility to be the first educators of their children in matters of faith.
  • Adults: Adults seeking Baptism enter the process of Adult Initiation through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. This is a process of formation that takes place throughout the liturgical year, culminating in the reception of all the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.


The Importance of Baptism:

Baptism is the foundation of the Christian life. It bestows God's grace, empowers us to grow in holiness, and makes us members of the Church, called to participate in her mission.


For Parents Seeking Baptism for Their Child:

Holy Trinity and St. Stephen Parishes rejoice with you and are honored that you wish to have your child baptized. The baptism of your child is an opportunity for you to reflect on your Christian journey. By requesting baptism for your child, you are expressing your desire to share your Christian faith with them and committing to raise them within the Catholic Church, educating them about Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith. This commitment is lived most especially through weekly participation at Sunday Mass.


Your child will be assisted in this faith journey by their Godparents. The Church requires one Catholic Godparent but allows for two: a Godfather and Godmother.  One must be a Confirmed Catholic and a practicing member of the Church. A baptized non-Catholic may serve as a Christian Witness, supporting the Godparent in nurturing the child's faith. Godparents, along with parents, play an essential role in the faith development of the child being baptized. As such, they must be willing to help the child lead a Christian life in harmony with their baptismal promises. 


The parents, and if possible, the Godparents must attend a Baptism Preparation class before the celebration of Holy Baptism.


Please call the parish office to make an appointment: Holy Trinity Parish @ 315-598-2118 and St. Stephen Parish @ 315-695-4531.