Our Entrance to the Church

For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.

The Rite of Baptism for Children emphasizes the importance of faithfulness on the part of parents when it says to parents:  “In asking to have your children baptized, you are accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith.”  That word “practice” is crucial; it calls for Christian modeling on the part of parents.

Children learn to be Christian by experiencing Christianity at home.  This “domestic church” prepares children for the local and world Church. It is in the home, in the domestic church, that children first learn basic trust, which is the foundation of faith.  Without the experience of faith, hope and commitment in the home, children will not be able to know and understand the larger Church.  During the baptismal preparation process, we help the family discern their desire and commitment to teaching their children and continuing this foundation of faith.  We ask that all who seek the Sacrament of Baptism be registered members of our parish family. 

The process of preparation for the sacrament depends on the age of the candidate:

• Children from infancy through age 7 are baptized throughout the year. Unless there is pastoral need, we do not celebrate this sacrament during the Lenten season.  The baptism take place on the 2^nd Sunday of each month, alternating between St. Mary and St. Andrew. 
• Those over 7 years of age must be enrolled in our religious education program. They will received their sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation) during the course of study.
• Adults are brought into the faith through the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA.) After a 2 year preparation program, Adult baptisms take place during the Easter Vigil, when they will also receive Eucharist and Confirmation.  Please see our Religious Education Program for more details.

For more information, please contact us via email at baptism@BMTParish.org or call the parish office at 201-437-4090