Baptism

Infant Baptism

Baptism, as the first of the sacraments of initiation “is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to the life in the Spirit, and the doorway which gives access to the other sacraments.” Through Baptism a person is freed from sin and begins a faith relationship with the Triune God, being reborn as a child of God. One becomes a member of the Body of Christ – the Church, so that he or she can take on the mission of Christ and the Church to spread the Good News of the Kingdom. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1213.)

The Catholic Church, in it's earliest times, has baptized children as well as adults. Our Lord said: “Unless a man is reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) The Church has always understood these words to mean that children should not be deprived of baptism because they are baptized in the faith of the Church. This faith is proclaimed for them by their parents and godparents, who represent both the local Church and the whole society of saints and believers, “The Church is at once the mother of all and the mother of each.” (Saint Augustine, Epistle 98, 5: PL 33, 362.)

Requirements for Baptism

1. Register in the Parish:

At least one of the parents must be registered members of one of our Tri-parishes. If you are not registered please call the offices listed below.

2. Baptism Preparation Class:

First-time parents must take a Baptismal preparation class. You are encouraged to take the class prior to the baby’s birth. Contact your parish office to set this up.

Scheduling the Baptism

Call your parish office to schedule your child’s Baptism.

Holy Family, Belle Prairie: 320-632-5720
Our Lady of Lourdes, Little Falls: 320-632-8243
Sacred Heart, Flensburg: (320)-632-6930
St. James, Randall: (320)-632-6930
St. Mary's, Little Falls: 320-632-5640
St. Stanislaus, Sobieski: (320)-632-6930

Selecting Godparents

Godparents play a very important role in your child’s spiritual life. They should serve as role models of the faith. The child should be able to look to their godparent as an example of how the church teaches us to live our Catholic faith. They should support not only the child but you, the parents as well. Additionally, in their role as godparent, they represent the larger Church community. Being a godparent is not only an honor, it is a tremendous responsibility. Therefore, the godparents should be carefully chosen.

Church requirements for Godparents

• Must have one Catholic Godparent, in good standing with the Church.
• The Catholic Godparent must be at least 16 years old and godparent must have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
• Must be actively practicing their Catholic faith.