Baptism

Baptism, which is the first sacrament we receive, opens the door to all the other sacraments. Through Baptism, a person becomes a Christian and a member of the Church. Baptism is the beginning of our discipleship in Jesus Christ.

Baptism, along with Confirmation and Eucharist, are called the Sacraments of Initiation.
The Church baptizes infants, children, teenagers and adults. Infants are baptized when their parents assume the responsibility of assuring that the child will be given the opportunity and example to discover Jesus Christ and his teachings within the Roman Catholic faith.

At St. Luke, Baptism is a very special event for us.  We pledge to help you and your child come to know Jesus as a brother, friend, and savior.  Parents have this responsibility above everyone else.  The people of the parish assist and support you now and as your child grows.   
Baptism Preparation consists of two sessions and is offered every other month (January, March, May, July, September and November), on Saturday morning from 9:00am-11:00am in the Rectory or Parish Center.  We invite first-time parents to participate in the two sessions. Parents with more than one child, who have participated in Baptism preparation previously attend only the second session, which focuses on Christian parenting.  

Godparents of infants and school-age children are committed Roman Catholics who are chosen by the parents. They serve as role models and promise to assist in the religious upbringing of the child.

In the case of adults being baptized, the sponsor is chosen by the candidate for baptism. Those to be baptized usually have one or two Godparents. A baptized non-Catholic may also be chosen to serve along with a Catholic Godparent, provided he or she is willing to assist in the Christian formation of the child.

Baptism at St. Luke’s is usually celebrated at 1:00 pm on the first Sunday of each month. These celebrations are communal and usually involve several families. Baptisms can also be celebrated during one of the Sunday Masses.

For more information or to arrange for participation in the preparation programs please contact  Maria at the Rectory 508-366-5502.

For a more detailed explanation of the Sacrament of Baptism from the Cathechism of the Catholic Church, please click here.