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 in the word.’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213)
Catholics receive the sacrament of baptism as infants or as adults, in the presence of his or her parents and godparents. Through the saving waters of baptism, Catholics believe that we are washed clean from the stain of original sin, caused by the sin of Adam and Eve. The grace we receive in baptism also makes us children of God the Father and welcomes us into the Catholic Church.
For more information:
- Deacon Andrew Kung, for adult baptisms at [email protected]
-
Annie Ma at the Parish Office for infant baptisms, at [email protected]
FAQs about Baptism for Infants
Do I need to be a registered parishioner?
Yes. By baptism, your child enters our Christian community at St. Anthony of Padua Parish. The faith of your child will be nourished as he or she grows in our parish.
Do I need to attend Sunday Mass every week?
Yes. The parents’ own practice of faith is evidence of their sincerity in their desire for their child’s baptism.
Are there any classes that I need to take to prepare for my child’s baptism?
Yes. Parents are required to take the first level (Discovery) of CCO’s Faith Studies program. Since Catholics have the right and obligation to take care of their children’s Christian education, parents are required to have some basic knowledge of the faith in order to fulfil their duty.
Do the godparents (sponsors) have to be parishioners at St. Anthony's?
No. If the godparents are not our parishioners, they need to complete the Baptism Sponsor Authorization form and ask their pastors to sign to make sure they are practicing Catholics. Please contact the Parish Office to obtain this form.
How many godparents can my child have?
Your child can have only one male or one female godparent, OR one of each.
Why does the Baptismal ceremony take place during Sunday Mass?
There are 3 practical benefits of having Baptisms during Sunday Masses. Firstly, the family benefits by making their profession of faith standing before, and with the community. Secondly, their friends and relatives benefit from seeing the Church at worship. Thirdly, the congregation benefits by being part of the joyful moment.