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. 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 throught water in the word.

Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213

To prepare for the Sacrament:

Schedule a date: To schedule a date for your child’s Baptism, please call the parish office at 740.754.2221. Except for special circumstances, Baptisms are not celebrated during the Seasons of Advent or Lent.

Register for a Pre-Jordan Course: If this is your first child, you must complete our Pre-Jordan course in preparation for the sacrament. You may take the course before the birth of your child. 

Select Godparents: Every person being baptized must have a sponsor, traditionally called a Godparent. The sponsor or Godparent must be a confirmed, practicing Catholic of at least sixteen years of age. If two Godparents are chosen, one needs to be a man and one needs to be a woman.  Please note that only one pair of Godparents will be listed on the Baptismal Certificate and in the official church records. 
 

The duties of parents:

• Parents must be willing to attend Holy Mass with their child every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation.
• Parents must teach their children the Faith at home.
• Parents must teach their children to pray.
• Parents must share their personal Faith.
• Parents must be willing to give their child a Catholic education through a parish school or the PSR program.

These are not options. They are the responsibilities of every Catholic parent.