Sacraments — Baptism

Baptism

      We maintain the ancient tradition of infant baptism, which is the usual practice at our parish.  Infants are usually baptized a month after birth, but may be baptized later.

      Jesus commands that all of His disciples or followers be baptized in the name of the Holy Trinity.  Therefore, we urge the baptism of persons of all ages who have never been baptized, or who were not baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

      We don't do "assembly-line  baptisms" and we don't require that baptisms be done only on certain days.  Then again, we are a small parish.  We also don't do full-immersion baptisms (in a baptismal pool or body of water), instead the priest or deacon pours baptismal water over the crown of the individual's head in the name of each person of the Holy Trinity in the form of three crosses (within the PNCC Rite of Baptism).

      The Pastor works with parents on scheduling the baptism of their child.  We recommend that baptism be administered before or after any Mass on any weekend, as the parish schedule allows.

      Infant, child, adolescent and adult baptisms may be done at any time on Sundays and Saturdays, even other days of week, according to the availability of the Pastor or the Deacon.  The parish hall is available at a discounted member price for a reception following the baptism.  (Go to the link Rental Space in the left or bottom margin.)

      We do require that those who are baptized become members of our parish and that families of children to be baptized be members of our parish.  Baptism is the sacrament that makes one a member of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ.  Being baptized obligates the person to take part in the sacramental life and worship of the church.  Therefore, we expect families to be participating and supportive members of St. Joseph's Parish (go to the Membership link above or on the left).  Those who want their children baptized and do not want to be participating and supportive members of the Church do not understand the Sacrament of Baptism.

      No other sacraments may be received without being baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

      Adolescents or adults who seek baptism must first meet with the Pastor or the Deacon for a class on the essential doctrines of the Faith and the obligations of being a member of the Church.

      Sponsors (for an adult) or Godparents (for a child)  are also required for every baptism.  They must be baptized themselves in the name of the Holy Trinity and must be able to profess belief in the doctrines summarized in the Nicene Creed.  (See "Liturgy of the Word of God" under Our Mass in the left margin for a copy of the creed.)

      Godparents must be willing to assist the parents or guardians in the Christian upbringing of the child.  They must also be willing to accept the role as a parent or guardian if the parents or guardians die or are removed from the child, or become incapacitated.

      Our tradition is that there be two sponsors or Godparents and that one be a male and the other a female.

      We will not discriminate against or judge anyone who presents a child for baptism because of marital status or lifestyle.  However, Biblical teaching and commandments, Christian doctrine and practice, and Church rules and obligations are expected to be followed by anyone who is baptized.  Through baptism a person is separated from the world and made a child of God and a member of the Church family.  However, forgiveness and renewal are offered to every parent or guardian of children to be baptized, so that together we may all become faithful, loving and participating members of the Body of Christ, the Church.