Baptism
The gateway to life in the Spirit
"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life... if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him... So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus."
Romans 6:3, 8, 11
The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus. Before starting his public ministry, Jesus submitted himself to the baptism given by John the Baptist. The waters did not purify him; he cleansed the waters. Jesus did not need to be baptized because he was totally faithful to the will of his Father and free from sin.
By commanding his disciples to baptize all nations, he established the means by which people would die to sin and begin to live a new life with God. In Baptism, the Holy Spirit moves us to answer Christ's call to holiness.
Infants & Young Children
Parents requesting baptism of infants and children to the age of six should be practicing Roman Catholics and registered members of the parish who regularly attend Mass at Church of the Visitacion. Contact the parish at least two months before the desired date. A baptism preparation class is required for parents and godparents.
School-Age Children
Children over the age of six who wish to be baptized must be enrolled in the Religious Education (CCD) Program by September of each year. They will receive Baptism and First Communion preparation at the same time. The baptism will take place during the Easter Vigil Mass.
Teenagers & Adults (OCIA)
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is for non-baptized teens and adults, and adults baptized in other Christian denominations considering becoming full members of the Roman Catholic Church. The program includes Catholic doctrine, morality, Bible study, community participation, and self-reflection. Weekly meetings from September through May.
Ready to begin? Contact the Parish Office.