Baptism
Infant Baptism at Our Lady Star of the Sea
"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 and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church an d made sharers in her mission.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1213)
Congratulations! Making the decision to have your child baptized in the Catholic faith is an eternal commitment to an abundant life. As a parish we want to support you and your family as much as possible.
Infant Baptism is for children from birth to 7 years of age. Adults and parents of older children who have never been baptized should contact Mr. Curtis Schuelke, Family Faith Formation Coordinator. For information on the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), Click here.
Baptism is not an empty ritual or mere symbol, but rather an essential part of God’s plan of salvation for all mankind. Baptism is a sacrament—a visible sign with real, spiritual effects. Through it we enter the family of God, the Church, and are purified from our sins and reborn in the Holy Spirit. Baptism confers an indelible seal on the new Christian, marking him or her as belonging to Christ, and it can be neither reversed nor repeated. Nothing can remove the mark of Baptism. Formed.org, Reborn
The love you share with your spouse has already named and brought this child into your family. With Baptism you are giving birth to your child once more- into the family of the Church. We welcome you and are excited to be a part of your child’s first step on their lifelong journey of faith.
The Steps of Baptism Preparation
Step 1 - Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in choosing godparents for your child.
When choosing your child’s godparents, be aware that a godparent is NOT the same as a legal guardian who would step in if something were to happen that would require them to raise your child. Rather, a godparent is someone who will be a life-long presence in their lives who will assist the parents in sharing the Catholic faith with that child. They are to be practicing Catholics who will be role models and guides.
- You may have two godparents, who may not be the child's parents, and they must be opposite gender.
- At least one must be an active, practicing Catholic in good standing and if married, the marriage must be recognized by the Catholic Church and they must provide a letter from their pastor stating this.
- If you have another person who is not Catholic but is Christian and has been baptized in a Christian church that is recognized by the Catholic Church, then they may serve as a Christian Witness.
- Godparents and Christian Witnesses must be at least 16 years of age.
- Must be practicing Catholics who have received all of their Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
- You cannot serve as a Christian Witness if you are Muslim, Jewish, Mormon (or another faith with invalid baptisms) or if you are unbaptized.
Step 2 - Register as a Parishioner of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church
It is important to have a home church where you practice your faith with a community that supports you in your relationship with Christ. Parents should attend weekly mass and support the parish by participating in activities and giving time, talent, and treasure. You may register as a parishioner online at www.olsos.org/register –OR- you may contact the Parish Office at 313-884-5554.
Step 3 - Initial Contact
After reviewing the information on the website, please complete the Baptism Registration form and send to Mr. Schuelke at c.schuelke@stargp.org. Your completed Baptism registration form begins the preparation process and Mr. Schuelke will contact you to schedule the Baptism Preparation Session.
Step 4- Attend the Baptism Preparation Session
You are required to attend an Infant Baptism Preparation course for your first child to be baptized. Please contact Mr. Schuelke for the day/time of the next Baptism class. This course will explore the theology and the Rite of Baptism. Your child is welcome to join you at this Baptism preparation session. Also, Godparents are encouraged to attend the class with you.
Step 5- Schedule Baptism Date
The baptismal date will be scheduled after the Baptism Preparation Course. Baptisms are celebrated after the 11:30 am Mass on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month.
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