Karen Guglielmoni
Director of Faith Formation
Baptism for Older Children
“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 and daughters 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)
When we think of baptizing children, we automatically think of infants. But what happens if, for any number of reasons, the child is older when the parents decide to celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism? If the child has not yet celebrated their 7th birthday, please contact the Parish Office, and we will arrange for you and your family to celebrate the Sacrament.
But what if the child is 7 years or older? It is often the case that the parents are interested not only in celebrating Baptism, but also beginning Faith Formation and preparing for full initiation into the Catholic faith with the reception of Confirmation and Eucharist. Please contact the Director of Faith Formation for information regarding the RCIA Process Adapted for Children.
"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.