“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 in the word.’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church)
Infant Baptism
We rejoice with parents upon the birth of their new child! It is an exciting and marvelous event that brings with it many responsibilities. Since the home is where the child will learn the earliest language of faith and how to live as a follower of Jesus.
The Sacrament of Baptism is a wonderful opportunity for the Good Shepherd community to celebrate and welcome our newest members into the Body of Christ.
What Parents Need to Know:
- Parents are to contact the Parish office at 810-639-7600 for information regarding our Baptism program after the birth of their child.
- Parents must be registered members of the Parish and be active Catholics (coming to Mass).
- Baptismal Preparation classes for parents are required for all celebrations of Baptism.
- Baptism program consists of two sessions to help parents accept this important responsibility and enter more fully into the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism.
- Baptism takes place during one of our weekend liturgies.
Role of Godparent:
- At least one of the Godparents must be a practicing Catholic
- Godparents must attend Baptismal Preparation classes with parents
Read: The Importance of Choosing Godparents
It is through parents with the help of godparents that the child will come to know the love of God and acquire an awareness of God’s loving presence in their life. The greatest gift they can give their child is the gift of FAITH.
Baptism for Children Over 5 years
Children over 5 years would go through The Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC).
- These classes are designed to educate children in the Catholic faith and prepare them for the Sacrament of Baptism.
- It is a year long preparation
- OCIC children would come into the church on Easter Sunday
Baptism for Adults
Adults seeking Baptism would enter the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA).
What is OCIA?
OCIA is a process of study, exploration, faith-sharing, and faith formation with specific liturgical rites for seekers and inquirers. Seekers and inquirers are non-baptized adults who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic Church and/or baptized adult Christians who desire full communion in the Roman Catholic Church.
- These classes are designed to educate adults in the Catholic faith and prepare them for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
- It is a year long preparation.
- Adults going through OCIA would come into the church on the Easter Vigil.