Baptism
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

Rom 6:4
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Mt 28:19
What is Baptism?

The Sacrament of Baptism is the first, and most foundational Sacrament of the Church, instituted by Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind. "Baptism is the way out of the kingdom of death into life, the gateway to the Church, and the beginning of a lasting communion with God." (YOUCAT 194) It is the foundation for all of the other sacraments; it unites us with Christ, incorporates us into his redemptive death on the Cross, frees us from the power of original sin and personal sin, leads us from darkness into light, and gives us new life in Christ.
What does Baptism do?

The effects of Baptism are many. Among them are:
  • Forgiveness of Original Sin
  • Forgiveness of personal sin
  • Incorporation into the Body of Christ
  • New Life in Christ
  • Induction into God's Family—we are made brothers and sisters in Christ
  • Initiation into the Church
  • Freedom from sin and darkness
With baptism, "Our life now belongs to Christ, and no longer to ourselves.... At his side and, indeed, drawn up in his love, we are freed from fear. He enfolds us and carries us wherever we may go—he who is Life itself." (Pope Benedict XVI, April 7, 2007)
Dominic Baptism
Seth holds up his newly baptized son Dominic for all to see. Welcome to the Church Dominic!
Is Baptism really the only way to salvation?

Baptism is necessary to enter the Kingdom of God. Jesus Christ is "the way, and the truth, and the life" (Jn 14:6), and since Baptism incorporates us into the Body of Christ it is the only means of salvation. God has made salvation dependent on the sacraments. However, while we as Catholics are bound to the sacraments, God is not. God's mercy and grace is FAR GREATER than even the sacraments. Jesus Christ died for all mankind. This means that those who have not had the opportunity to learn about Jesus, or to encounter him or the faith, but seek God with a sincere heart and live according to their consciences can be saved. But their salvation, like all who are saved, comes only through Jesus Christ.
Who can be baptized?

Ultimately anyone who confesses faith in Jesus Christ, and desires to be a part of the Church can be baptized. Baptism is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, First Eucharist). In the Catholic Church it is the norm that children are baptized soon after birth. While Baptism must normally be chosen by the individual, the spiritual authority of parenthood gives parents the right to confess the faith on behalf of their child. With the help of Godparents, they are then duty-bound to raise their child in the faith. 
If I was Baptized in another church; do I have to be baptized again?

Baptism can only be administered once. When a person is baptized there is a real and significant change that happens within him; he becomes a New Creation. Because of this we believe that once a person is baptized the effect of that baptism is forever. As long as the baptism was valid there is no need to be re-baptized. 

These are the conditions for baptism to be considered valid:
  1. It is applied via washing. This means either by full submersion (this is the norm in the Eastern Churches), immersion (kneeling in a font with water poured over the head), or effusion (pouring of water over the head—the usual practice for infant baptism). In some cases sprinkling can be considered valid. 
  2. Actual water must be used (i.e. not saliva, gatorade, etc...)
  3. The words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit" are said by the person actually pouring the water.

Anyone can baptize validly, especially if there is danger of death, even a non-believer or atheist—providing that they intend to do what the Church intends. While the Catholic Church recognized the validity of most Christian rites of baptism, there are a few that are not recognized, including the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons). The reason for this is that, while they use the same trinitarian formula, their understanding of the Trinity is not Christian, thus they do not intend the same thing when they baptize. 

Adults or children age seven and older who have not yet been baptized and wish to become Catholic can join R.C.I.A. (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults). R.C.I.A. is a process where catechumens—candidates for baptism—learn about the faith and grow in their relationship with Jesus. Catechumens are usually baptized at the great Vigil of Easter, one of the most beautiful liturgies of the year. Those who are already baptized but wish to enter the Catholic Church can also enroll in R.C.I.A. 
Where can I get more information about Baptism at St. André Bessette Parish?

If you have questions about infant baptism or would like to have your child baptized you can contact the Parish Office via email, or phone at (603) 524-9609. 

If you are considering becoming a Catholic you can contact our parish Evangelist, Seth Evangelho via email or call the parish office at (603) 524-9609 ext. 27. 

    Questions about Baptism?