Baptism

The Meaning of Baptism

God created each of us out of love and for a purpose: to share in His divine life. Yet from the beginning of human history, sin entered the world. As a result, we are all born marked by original sin and experience the effects of a fallen world. We cannot restore ourselves to the fullness of life with God on our own.

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The Good News is that God did not abandon us. In His mercy, He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who by His life, death, and Resurrection conquered sin and death. Through Him, we are offered forgiveness, new life, and communion with God—now and for eternity.

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Baptism is the first and foundational Sacrament of Christian life. Through the waters of Baptism and the power of the Holy Spirit:

• Original sin is washed away, along with all personal sin.

• We are reborn as adopted sons and daughters of God.

• We become members of Christ’s Body, the Church.

• We receive sanctifying grace and share in God’s own divine life.

 

Baptism is not simply a symbol, but a true participation in the saving work of Christ. It marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith, discipleship, and conversion.

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For infants and young children, parents and godparents profess the faith on their behalf and commit to raising them in the practice of that faith. Older children, teens, and adults personally profess their faith and freely choose to follow Christ. In every case, Baptism is a gift—God’s initiative of grace—inviting us into a living relationship with Him.

We joyfully welcome those preparing to receive this beautiful Sacrament and to begin—or deepen—their life in Christ and His Church.

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Adults

If you are an adult seeking Baptism, please contact mmcdonald@spccnb.org for more information about OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults).

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Children

​If you are seeking Baptism for a child 6 or under, here are the steps you can expect as you prepare:

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1. Sign up for a Baptism preparation class here. A previously taken class is valid for 2 years. 

2. Choose Godparents and ensure that the Godparents also sign up for a Baptism preparation class at St. Paul or at their own parish. A previous taken class is valid for 2 years. 

3. Turn in Baptism Registration form, Godparent Sponsor form(s), Godparent's baptism class certificate (if not at St. Paul) and a copy of the child's birth certificate at your class. 

4. Complete our Parish Registration Form online. 

5. Schedule your Baptism date with Cynthia at cwhite@spccnb.org.​​

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For children or teens 7 or order, We will guide you in the Baptism process and ensure the child is enrolled at Saint Paul Catholic School, Faith Formation, or Youth Ministry as they prepare for their Baptism and other Sacraments. This will be a two year process. Contact Marisa at mmcdonald@spccnb.org. 

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Godparent (Sponsor) Requirements

Each godparent must complete a Sponsor Form (one form per godparent). The form must be signed and sealed by both the godparent and a representative of the parish they currently attend.
If the godparent is a registered parishioner of St. Paul, our parish office can sign and seal the form for you.

Please note:
Only one godparent is required for Baptism; however, it is customary to have two. If two godparents are chosen, one must be male and one female.

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Eligibility Requirements

To serve as a godparent, a sponsor must:

• Have received all three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.

• Be at least 16 years of age.

• Be a practicing Catholic who is free to receive the Sacraments and attends Mass regularly.

• If married, be married according to the laws of the Catholic Church.

• If single, not be living with someone outside the bonds of marriage.

• Not be a parent of the child being baptized.

If you have any questions about eligibility, please contact the parish office for guidance.

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