BAPTISM

ADULT BAPTISM: Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: This ongoing catechetical process enables people to learn about the Catholic faith as possible preparation to entering the Church. This spiritual journey may begin anytime of the year, beginning with the period of Precatechumenate. The process continues through three more periods, depending on the readiness of the individual inquirers.

INFANT BAPTISM: Infants are usually baptized during or following a weekend Mass, but other arrangements can be made. Parents attend a Pre-Baptism Session prior to their child's baptism. Holy Redeemer Parish has the responsibility of ensuring that infants baptized into the Catholic Church will be raised in the faith. There must be evidence of personal active faith and the commitment of Catholic parenting. The Parish Membership Section gives aspects of a personal active failth. When personal active faith is not present. We will provide the opportunity for renewal of faith and prayer.

PARISH MEMBERSHIP: For a child to be baptized Catholic, one parent must be a registered and active member of Holy Redeemer Parish, regularly participating in Sunday worship here and supporting the parish through stewardship of time, talent and treasure. Such a commitment provides reasonable assurance that the child to be baptized will be raised in the faith. Those living in other parishes may have a child baptized here if their pastor gives permission. Parents not married int he Catholic Church will be informed about (and are to consider) the possibility of having their marriage blessed.

PRE-BAPTISM SESSION: There is a Pre-Baptism Session for parents to ensure that parents are aware of the meaning of baptism and the commitments they are making for Catholic parenting. Upcoming sessions are announced in the weekly bulletin and the bi-monthly Happenings. Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend before the child arrives. If parents have participated in the program at Holy Redeemer within three years, they need not repeat it.

GODPARENTS: The godparent's role is to assist parents in passing on the faith in which the child is being baptized. Therefore, parents should choose someone who will take the role seriously and who will be a good role model for the child. A godparent must be at least sixteen years old, already confirmed, and a practicing Catholic. If there are two godparents, one must be male and the other female; however, one godparent is sufficient. Christians of another faith may serve a a Christian witness with a godparent, but should be a practicing member of a Church.