Bringing up your child in the Catholic faith is an exciting journey and the Church is eager to assist you!

 The Preparation for Baptism can help parents more fully embrace their role as primary teacher of the faith and to raise their child to live as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

 “The term children or infants refers to those who have not yet reached the age of discernment and therefore cannot profess personal faith.” (Rite of Baptism, no.1)
“Parents of an infant (or young children) to be baptized and those who are to undertake the function of sponsor are to e instructed property on the meaning of this sacrament and the obligations attached to it."  (Code of Canon Law, c. 851.2)

"To fulfill the true meaning of the Sacrament, children must later be formed in the faith in which they have been baptized." (Rite of Baptism, no 3)
Discipleship Includes:
Growing in knowledge and understanding of the Gospel message through systematic catechesis. (Head)\
Having a passionate, heartfelt relationship with Jesus Christ sparked through reading Bible stores, daily prayer, and fully participating in Mass. (Heart)
Outwardly expressing faith through concrete actions in service to the community. (Hands)

Preparation for the Sacrament:
Parents and Godparents should be prepared in such a way that the celebration of the Sacrament is a joyful event and understood by all! Call the office to find the online "Preparation Course" that you need to complete prior to the baptism of your child.

Responsibility of Parents:
Prior to the day of Baptism, parents should be made aware of:
 The theology, rights and responsibilities associated with Baptism.
 The impact and significance of this event.
 Their role in bringing up the child in the catholic faith.

Godparents should also be made aware:
 Of the meaning of this Sacrament and the obligations attached to it.
 Of their role as a lifelong example and mentor in the faith.

Pre-requisites for Godparents:
 Must be at least 16 years old
 Must be a fully initiated Catholic:  having received Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
 Must lead an active life of faith that is in accord with their commitment as a sponsor
 Is not the father or mother of the one to be Baptized, since they already have their responsibly to the child.
 Complete an online course to prepare parents/godparents for the baptism.

The Role of the Parish:
 Research shows that you (parents) are the number one influence on your child’s faith formation and in practicing the faith as they grow to adulthood. Your parish priest and others at the parish are both obligated and pleased to help you in this endeavor!

THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)

Baptisms are generally celebrated on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. Parents wishing to have their child baptized at Visitation should be registered members of the parish. The parents of the child are also required to attend a Baptism Preparation class, hosted by the parish.

To schedule a baptism, please contact our Parish Coordinator, 
 

Your baby’s baptism is a time for celebration and joy. It is the first and most important step you will take as Catholic parents in the life of faith of your child.

Baptism is the first Sacrament of the Catholic church and initiates us into the Body of Christ – into His life, Death, and Resurrection. It is the essential sacrament in becoming a disciple of Christ and indelibly marks us as His. This sacrament is the essential prerequisite for all the others. Baptism is God’s way of showing love for each child. It is the sign that reminds us that we are loved and created in God’s own image. Through the waters of faith, your child is welcomed into God’s family.  

The sacrament of baptism ushers us into the divine life, cleanses us from sin, and initiates us as members of the Christian community. It is the foundation for the sacramental life.

At baptism, the presider prays over the water:

Parental duties to their baptised child