Baptism

Baptism: The Door of the Church:

The Sacrament of Baptism is often called “The door of the Church,” because it is the first of the seven sacraments not only in time (since most Catholics receive it as infants) but in priority, since the reception of the other sacraments depends on it. It is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation, the other two being the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Once baptized, a person becomes a member of the Church. Traditionally, the rite (or ceremony) of baptism was held outside the doors of the main part of the church, to signify this fact.

The Necessity of Baptism

Christ Himself ordered His disciples to preach the Gospel to all nations and to baptize those who accept the message of the Gospel. In His encounter with Nicodemus (John 3:1-21), Christ made it clear that baptism was necessary for salvation:

“Amen, amen I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” For Catholics, the sacrament is not a mere formality; it is the very mark of a Christian because it brings us into new life in Christ.

At Saint Bernadette, Arrangements for baptism should be made through the Parish Office.
440-734-1300. Parents are required to attend a Pre-Baptismal class.

 Please call the Parish Office for Baptism Class dates and to register, 440-734-1300.

Baptism is also administered through the R.C.I.A. program for adults needing this sacrament.

Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)