Baptism
Sacramental Ministry Mission Statement
The mission of the Sacramental Ministry is to prepare God’s children to receive the sacramental gifts of Baptism, Eucharist and Reconciliation. To strengthen and nourish them and be transformed by the Holy Spirit to more deeply experience the beauty of our Catholic faith.
The Sacrament of Baptism
“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.” (CC # 1213)
It is a joyous sacrament of rebirth, belonging and holiness. Baptism is a Sacrament of initiation that is the consecration of the child into the Catholic faith community as a member of the Body of Christ and a commitment by the parents to raise their child in the Catholic faith and to be a disciple of Jesus.
In seeking Baptism, St. James Church and the Diocese require that all new parents attend a Baptismal Preparation class prior to having their child baptized.
The one session class will cover the meanings of Baptism, parental responsibilities in their child’s faith formation, discipleship, how to choose godparents, and the signs and symbols of the Baptismal Rite.
When choosing godparents, it is required that at least one godparent must be a practicing, confirmed Catholic in good standing with the Church. At St. James Church the preparation class is a private session and arranged personally on an “as needed” basis.
Baptisms can be arranged for infants and young children.
If you live in the St. James Parish area and are not registered, you will be asked to register as a parishioner.
If you are not living in the area but requesting to have your child baptized here, a letter from your home parish pastor granting permission to have your child baptized outside your home parish is required, as well as, certification that you have attended a Baptism preparation program.
Baptisms are scheduled with the priest or deacon through the Baptismal Coordinator. We encourage baptisms being celebrated during the Masses so as to welcome our newest members in the presence of the St. James Church community.
Private baptisms can also be scheduled at a time approved by the pastor or deacon.
To schedule an appointment for the Baptismal preparation class and arrange a date/time for your child’s Baptism, or if you have any other questions regarding baptisms, contact:
Sandra Addante
Baptismal Coordinator
Email: earlysacraments@stjamescaz.com
Phone: 315-655-9309
