Baptism

Baptism is one of the seven sacraments of the Church.  It is the first sacrament of Christian initiation.  Through baptism one becomes a member of the Church and thereby a son or daughter of God… a brother or sister of the Lord Jesus.  Baptism takes away all sin, including original sin.  Baptism also confers the gift of sanctifying grace.  Through baptism one receives an indelible character and is forever marked as a Christian, a disciple of the Lord Jesus.  Baptism is celebrated by the three-fold pouring of water (or threefold immersion) while reciting the Trinitarian formula: “N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

Catholic parents are required by Canon Law to have their infant children baptized as soon as reasonably possible.   In the Diocese of Peoria, parents are required to take an instructional class on baptism prior to the baptism of their first child.  At St. Val’s & St. Mary's, the Pastor schedules these classes with parents as needed.

Parents will need to select god-parents for their child.  God-parents (0r sponsors) must be Catholic, confirmed, at least 16 years of age, and living in conformity with the Catholic faith.  Prospective sponsors are required to have a certificate signed by their parish priest, attesting that they are qualified to serve as sponsors.  Only one god-parent (sponsor) is strictly required.  The other party could be a non-Catholic “witness,” assuming that they are active members of another Christian community.

Infant baptisms are usually celebrated after the 12 Noon Mass on Sundays.

Parents are asked to choose a saint’s name, under which their child will be baptized… perhaps added to the given name,  if necessary.

For adults that wish to be baptized, please see the section below on the R.C.I.A.