Baptism

Baptism

The parents and godparents are required to have an interview with the deacon or pastor, and attend a Preparation Class. Expectant parents are encouraged to attend the class prior to the baptism.


Registration can be arranged by calling 413-323-6272 x1

or start the process by completing and submitting

our online Baptism Registration form located below.

WHAT IS THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM?

Baptism is the first of the “Sacraments of Initiation”; the others being Confirmation and Eucharist.


Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water and in the word.”


He (man) becomes a “son of light”; indeed, he becomes “light” himself: Baptism is God’s most beautiful and magnificent gift…. We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God’s lordship.


Baptism is only given once. It imprints in the soul an indelible spiritual mark, the “character”, which is the sign of Jesus Christ.

To read more: Catechism of the Catholic Church (1212-1284)

Baptism Registration Form

Child's Information


Godparent Information

The godparent(s) are expected to be active, participating members of the Catholic Church (i.e. attend Mass regularly, pray and live a moral Catholic life.)

  1. The godparent(s) will assist the parents, to present the child at the baptism, and will help the baptized to lead a Christian life in harmony with the promises of baptism and faithfully fulfill the obligations connected with it.
  2. The godparent(s) must be a Catholic, who has been confirmed and has already received the Sacrament of the Most Holy Eucharist and leads a moral Catholic life.
  3. The godparent(s) must be at least 16 years old.
  4. The godparent(s) cannot be the father or the mother of the one to be baptized.
  5. Only one godparent is required, but should two be desired, only one male and one female are permissible.
  6. A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic church may only serve as a witness to the baptism together with a Catholic godparent.


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