Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is the first sacrament to be received. Baptism is the foundation of our life in Christ and the beginning of a lifelong journey of discipleship. Through baptism we are freed from the effects of original sin and incorporated into the family of God and we become members of the Church, the living body of Christ. Today, as it was in the days of the apostles, water is poured over the head of the person being baptized while the celebrant proclaims “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

Catholic families are encouraged to baptize their children soon after birth. However, the Sacrament of Baptism can be received at any age. Whether a person is baptized as an infant or as an adult, Baptism is the initial way a person experiences the embrace and mercy of our loving God.

At St. John Neumann Parish, infant and child baptisms are celebrated on the first and third Sunday of the month following the 11:00am Mass. Pre-Baptism classes are offered at St. John Neumann Church on a Tuesday evening every other month. Please call the parish office to register for the class and to schedule your child’s baptism. 440-238-1770

Adults who have not been baptized participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults which is described here.