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 through water and in the word.” (CCC 1213)  

Infant Baptism: Reborn as Children of God

Baptism is God’s gift of new life. In the Sacrament of Baptism, your child is reborn as a beloved son or daughter of the Father, freed from original sin, filled with the Holy Spirit, and welcomed into the family of God. As Reborn reminds us, Baptism is not primarily something we do—it is something God does. Through water and the Word, God claims your child, gives them a new identity in Christ, and marks them forever with His love. Our parish rejoices with families who present their children for Baptism and promises to support you as you raise your child in the Catholic faith.

Why Baptize Infants?

From the beginning of the Church, parents have brought their children to Christ, trusting in His promise of grace and new life.

Through infant Baptism:

• Your child is reborn in Christ

• Original sin is washed away

• Your child becomes a member of the Church, the Body of Christ

• The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within them

• Your child begins a lifelong journey of faith
  

Baptism plants the seed of divine life that will grow as your child is nurtured through prayer, the sacraments, and Christian witness.

The Role of Parents

By requesting Baptism for your child, you are accepting the responsibility to raise your child as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Parents commit to:

• Teaching their child how to pray

• Helping them grow in love for God and neighbor

• Participating regularly in the sacramental life of the Church

• Living the faith as an example in the home

The parish community stands with you in this sacred responsibility.

The Role of Godparents

Godparents are chosen to help support parents in forming the child in the Catholic faith. They are called to be faithful witnesses, helping the child grow into the identity received at Baptism. At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic who has received the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation (at least 16 years of age).

Preparing for Baptism

To prepare for your child’s Baptism, parents are asked to:

• Be registered members of the parish

• Participate in a Baptism preparation session held the second Thursday of each month at St. Ignatius at 6:00 pm - in the parish office

• If this is your first child, if you have not previously attended the Baptism Preparation Class, or if it has been five years or more since your last Baptismal Prep class please contact Angie Sailing to register for the class.

• Submit required documentation

Classes and Information

Preparation sessions are the second Thursday of each month at the Parish Office starting at 6:00pm. 

Begin the Process

We are honored to walk with your family as your child begins their life in Christ. Contact Angie Sailing (or 608-575-8365) to begin the Baptism process Rejoice in the gift of new life and rebirth in Christ. 

For a child over the age of 7 or an adult, please contact Marie Lins