Baptism

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua),* and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons 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.”* - The Sacrament of Baptism, CCC 1213

For baptism of infants: St. Joseph Parish, and St. Stephen Family of Parishes is blessed with the gift of those who choose to be baptized. We hope to share in some way in the excitement of parents. At the very beginning of the Rite of Baptism the priest or deacon reminds the parents that, in asking that their child be baptized, “You are accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith.”

To help parents and godparents better understand and reflect upon this two-fold responsibility, parents are expected to be active Catholics and participate in the baptism preparation program. You certainly may participate in this preparation prior to the birth of your child. Preparation for a first child consists of two classes prior to the baptism. We will let you know that timeline upon recieving your baptism inquiry.

Godparents are asked to present signed documentation from their current parish attesting that they are actively practicing our Catholic faith.  A date of baptism is not set until the parish office has received the forms from the Godparent’s parish. Godparents are invited to attend the classes with the parents.

To get started, please contact the parish office.

Call the Parish Office
Email the Parish Office

For baptism of adults: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process through which adults inquire, discern and prepare for full communion in the Roman Catholic Church. It is for those who:

• have never been baptized.
• have been baptized in another Christian tradition, but are considering the Catholic faith.
• have been baptized Catholic but have not received the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation or never received religious formation.

​​​​​​​Held at St. Julie's: Classes are held once a week at St. Julie Billiart Church and can be started at any time. RCIA classes offer instruction, prayer, and experience with the Church before receiving Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion and enter the Church at the Easter Vigil. For more info, please contact Pilar Hernandez below.

Held at Queen of Peace: We meet each week to better understand the mystery of God's love for each of us as well as providing a basic understanding of the main tenets of our Catholic faith. Everyone is welcome to attend, and we will try our best to make you feel welcome. Come and see! Please call us if you are planning to attend or have questions.