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 all 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."
WHO CAN BE BAPTIZED?
Every person that has not yet been baptized can be baptized after being properly trained, but the preparation process looks a bit different depending on the person's age.
Infants (0-6 years old)
Baptizing Infants
From the earliest moments of the Church, it has baptized infants. In the Old Testament, Jews were circumcised as infants eight days after birth, for those born into Jewish households could be circumcised in anticipation of the Jewish faith in which they would be raised. Thus, in the New Testament, those born into Christian families are baptized in anticipation of being raised in the Christian faith.
How to Request Baptism
Families desiring to have their child baptized at a West Allis Catholic parish should be registered members of that parish and should arrange for a date and instruction by contacting the St. Rita Parish Office.
What about Godparents?
Children being baptized receive one or two Godparents. The role of Godparent is to "help the newly baptized on the Road of Christian Life," (CCC 1255). According to Canon Law, Godparents must be both a practicing Catholic and an adult (16 or older). If two Godparents are chosen, one must be a Godmother and one must be a Godfather. If one Godparent is chosen, it may be either a Godmother or a Godfather. If you have concerns about choosing Godparents, please speak with one of our priests.
Adults (7 years or older)
Those that have reached the age of reason (seven years old) are no longer considered infants in the eyes of the Church. Hence, they are capable of making the decision of baptism for themselves.
Everyone over the age of seven must go through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Follow the link to learn more!
Each person that decides to participate in this wonderful, ancient journey of faith will be fully initiated on the Easter Vigil by receiving baptism, confirmation, and first communion.