Baptism

“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)

Regardless of age, Baptism is the first sacrament of Christian initiation. While typically celebrated with parents and their newborn infants, Baptism is also celebrated for adults through the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA).

The Sacrament of Baptism is a wonderful opportunity for the St. Veronica community to celebrate and welcome our newest members into the Body of Christ. We celebrate Baptisms as follows:

  • As a community of families on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 1:30 pm. (Please note: There are Holy Days and holiday weekends when the Sacrament is not celebrated; check with the Parish Office about such times).
  • During Sunday Masses and the Saturday Vigil Mass (except Solemnities such as Christmas, and during some special parish celebrations at particular Masses).
  • Baptisms are not celebrated at Mass or in the community setting during Lent.

Baptismal Preparation classes for parents are required for all celebrations of Baptism.

  • We ask that you pre-register for these classes.
  • Please call the Parish Office at (650) 588-1455 for more information and registration.
  • We are privileged to celebrate many Baptisms with our families and so Baptismal classes can sometimes be completely full as much as two months in advance of the date of celebration.

"The fruit of Baptism...is a rich reality that includes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins, birth into the new life by which man becomes an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ, and a temple of the Holy Spirit. By this very fact the person baptized is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ, and made a sharer in the priesthood of Christ"

— Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1279

Baptismal Symbols

Water

The waters of Baptism recall Jesus’ own baptism by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ. We are washed clean of sin.

Light

The baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle that stands in the church as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At Baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.

Oil

At Baptism, we are anointed into the life of Christ as "priest, prophet and king." A cross is traced on the candidate’s forehead as are reminder that we are heirs of the Kingdom of God.

White Garment

The white garment that is placed upon us at Baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection.