Baptism

The celebration of the sacrament of Baptism is the first initiation into the Christian Church. It comes to us as a directive from Jesus who said in Matthew’s Gospel that his disciples were to “Go … and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matt: 28:19)
 
"Baptism is the way Eucharist begins, and Eucharist is the way baptism is sustained in the lives of the faithful. These two sacraments are thus fundamental to the whole sacramental system: the other sacraments make sense only to the extent that each of them relates to baptism." 
 
Through the waters of Baptism, we live again the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. “Baptism incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God’s people. This first sacrament pardons all our sins, rescues us from the power of darkness, and brings us to the dignity of adopted children, a new creation through water and the Holy Spirit. Hence we are called and are indeed the children of God.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us that Baptism “gives one a share in the priesthood of Christ and provides the basis for communion with all Christians. It bestows … the gifts of the Holy Spirit. A baptized person belongs forever to Christ.” 
 
The celebration of Baptism is a time of joy and pride for the Church, as she welcomes another member. When people, children or adults, are baptized, they are baptized into a community of people who are attempting to live out the Christian faith. That is why involvement in one’s faith community is such an important aspect of Baptism.
 
                   
                 Video: Click on the image to watch
                 Bishop Robert Barron's comments
                           on baptism (7 minutes)
 
For information about baptizing your child, contact your parish.
 
Other Resources:
  1. The Rite of Baptism for Children
  2. Theological Principles for Sacramental Catechesis by Aiden Kavanagh
  3. Youcat # 194-202 (Youcat:  Youth Catechism)

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS:

Diocesan Policy for the Baptism of Children

On March 31st, 2015, a policy for the baptism of children was implemented by the Archdiocese of Moncton.  Click here to download a copy in PDF. 

Catechism of the Catholic Church, # 1213-1284

Click HERE for references on Baptism contained in the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Article 1213:  Introduction 

Articles 1214-1216:  What is this Sacrament Called

Articles 1217-1228:  Baptism in the Economy of Salvation

Articles 1229-1245:  How Baptism is Celebrated

Articles 1246-1255: Who Can Receive Baptism

Article 1256:  Who Can Baptise

Articles 1257-1261:  The Necessity of Baptism

Articles 1262-1274:  The Grace of Baptism

Articles 1275-1284:  Conclusion in Brief

Code of Canon Law: Baptism (Can. 849-878)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The celebration of Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation into the Christian Church – the “gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church #1213)   It “incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God’s people, pardons our sins, rescues us from the power of darkness, and brings us to the dignity of adopted children, a new creation through water and the Holy Spirit.” (Rite of Baptism #2)

Here are a few questions we often receive; simply click on the question to see the answer.

1. Who do I contact to have my child baptized?

Please contact the parish of which you are member, or in which you reside, to make arrangements to receive the catechesis, and to register your child for Baptism.

 

2. Is it necessary to participate in preparation to have my child baptized?

Yes. To deepen their understanding firstly of the sacrament of Baptism and the rich symbols and ritual of the celebration of the sacrament, and secondly that being a Christian means being part of the family of Christ, parents, and when it is possible godparents, are to participate in catechetical sessions offered by their parish. 

3. Who can be godparents?

  • Only one is required but two are permitted; if there are two, one must be male and one female
  • Must be selected by the baby’s parents
  • Must be over the age of 16
  • Must be fully initiated Roman Catholics – having received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist
  • Should be living a life of faith – regular participation in Sunday Eucharist, one who tries to live their Christian beliefs in daily life
  • Cannot be the father or mother of the child
  • A baptized Christian not belonging to the Roman Catholic Church may act as a Christian witness along with the Catholic godparent

4. How can we have a child baptized in a parish not our own?

As a rule, children are baptized in the parish where their parents reside because this is the faith community in which the child will be raised.  However, with the permission of their pastor, Baptism may be celebrated elsewhere, and the parents receive the formation in their home parish.  Contact your pastor to make these arrangements. 

5. May a child be baptized if only one parent requests it?

Generally speaking, both parents request Baptism for their child.  According to circumstances, the consent of at least one of the parents, or the person who lawfully takes their place, is required for the baptism of a child. (Code of Canon Law #868.1)

6. What are my responsibilities as a parent bringing my child for Baptism?

To raise your children in the Catholic faith.

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