Baptism

Baptism is the first of the seven sacraments.  It is the first of the three sacraments of initiation, and it is the first of the sacramental spiritual journey. 

The symbols of baptism signify cleansing, death and rebirth, purification, light, new identity, and commitment of one’s life to living in relationship with God and acting in a way that honors God through love, service, and dignity. In baptism, one’s identity is “conformed” to Christ, meaning that we, in all we are and all we do, set our hearts, minds, and actions to do as Christ would in the world.  This is why it is the beginning of a “new life” – it is a unique call, and one that is with us through every moment of life. 

In the early days of Christianity, all the sacraments of initiation were completed within one ceremony: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.  Baptism marks the beginning of one’s entrance and welcome into the Christian community.  The role of the community is critical in welcoming a new person into the life of the community.  First of all, the sponsor (often called Godparents) and the parents of a young child, let the community know that this person will do what is asked of him or her, and they make a promise to help the person understand what it means to live as Christ asked.  The community then offers ongoing support and guidance of one’s spiritual formation throughout the course of one’s life.  Sometimes living as Christ wants us to is not easy, and we need each other.  None of the sacraments are meant to be solitary events; we are all made for each other, and it is through one another that we come to know the love of God. 

Baptism may be done at any time of life, but Christians are only baptized once in a lifetime!  If you have never been baptized and are interested in learning more about what Christian life is all about, you are always welcome to learn more.  “Let them come to the water,” we say.  No one is turned away who seeks and asks for baptism. 



Required Documents:
 

Birth Certificate and Parent's ID
As part of the process of preparation for Baptism, it is necessary to bring the original birth certificate of your child to the Parish Office along with at least one parent's driver license or state ID at the time of registration for Baptism. We will make copies of this document and review any other requirements necessary for the Baptism at that time.

Older Children (1st grades and up)
Please contact the Director of Religious Education / Pastoral Associate at 708-388-4004 for information about their baptismal preparation.


Baptismal Preparation Class
Parents are to attend one Baptismal Session prior to the Baptism (preferably during pregnancy).


Baptisms are celebrated on the 1st and 3rd Sunday at Incarnation Church of every month and the second Sunday of every month at 12:30 P.M at St. Terrence Worship Site. Please call the rectory 708-597-3180, for available baptismal dates and to register for the session. There are no Baptisms during Lent.