Baptism

- Liturgy / Sacraments

"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.”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1213).

The Sacrament of Baptism is administered at Mary, Mother of the Redeemer on most Sundays after the 12:00 pm Mass. Arrangements must be made in advance by calling the Parish Office.

Pre-Jordan Classes
First time parents are required to attend a Pre-Jordan class before the baptism. Mary, Mother of the Redeemer offers Pre-Jordan classes the second Tuesday of every month at 7:00 pm.
No pre-registration is necessary.

Godparents
- If you are a first-time parent, you are asked to attend a “Pre-Jordan” instruction prior to the birth of the child. These instructions are held on the 2^nd Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm in the John Paul II Room. No prior registration is necessary.
- For the Sacrament of Baptism, each child must have at least one Godparent. If there are two Godparents, it must be comprised of one man and one woman. In order to be eligible, a Godparent must be:
  - At least 16 years of age
  - A fully initiated Catholic (has received Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist)
  - A practicing Catholic (including the regular reception of the Sacraments)
  - Married in the Church (if Godparent is married)
  - All Godparents must get a “Letter of Eligibility” from the Parish in which they are currently registered.
- A parent of the child cannot also be the Godparent.
- A baptized Christian of another denomination cannot be a Godparent. However, he or she is permitted to stand in as a “Christian Witness,” provided that there is also one Godparent present.