Baptism

We believe in one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins"

Through our First Parents' (Adam & Eve) disobedience, mankind lost the Divine Life originally intended for us by our Creator. Because of this Original Sin, man's original harmony with creation, with his fellow man, and within himself ruptured--bringing death, decay, sin, and sickness into the world.

Though separated from His creation by the fruits of their disobedience and sin, God did not abandon us to our just fate. Rather, He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to dwell among us, taking on a human nature. This Jesus lived our life and died our death, suffering on the Cross for the sake of each human person who had lived (and who would ever live). Through His sacrifice--the taking up of our just punishment for sin--death, and subsequent resurrection, Jesus restored us to communion with the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Sacrament of Baptism, instituted by Christ, is our participation in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:3-4). In the waters of baptism, we receive the very life of God lost to us with Original Sin. In short, we are cleansed from the stain of that Original Sin, our sins are forgiven, we are made adopted sons and daughters of God, we become members of Christ, we are incorporated into the Church and Her mission, and we receive charisms (or spiritual gifts) for the sake of our participation in that mission. Thus, as the Catechism of the Catholic Church says: Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other Sacraments (CCC 1213).

Following both Scripture and ancient Tradition, the Church baptizes infants. If you would like to schedule the baptism of an infant, please call the Parish Office at 315-393-3930.

If you would like to schedule the Baptism of an older child, or if you are an adult and you would like to receive this Sacrament please call the Parish Office.

Because of the importance of this Sacrament, preparation on the part of the family and/or the individual to be baptized is essential. This formation is directed at nourishing and nurturing faith in Christ as well as understanding more deeply the Teachings of the Church.

Sponsor is to be at least 16 years of age, have received Holy Communion and Confirmation, and practice the Catholic faith.  A baptized person who belongs to a non-catholic ecclesial community may be admitted in the company of a Catholic sponsor, serving as a Christian witness. 

To schedule a baptism, contact us by email, or call the rectory at 315-393-3930.