Baptism

Bringing new life into the world is one of the greatest miracles of life. It brings with it so many joys and blessings. It also brings a lot of hard work and many responsibilities. In a real way, the work is only just the beginning. Over the years parents will have to care for this wonderful new life and help their baby grow and become a loving, happy person, able to find joy and to bring joy to the world.

The love parents have for their baby is part of the love that God has. Just as parents want their baby to find love, happiness, and peace, so does God. This is precisely why God gave this new life into parent’s care.

In the Sacrament of Baptism, God shows this love. Through this sacrament, a child will become, in a very special way, part of the family of the Church. Baptism is a time for celebration and joy. Baptism is a birth into the Christian community and is in every way as solemn and important as birth itself. It is an event that needs preparation. The most important preparation for parents is to look at their own faith. A baby will be born with the parents’ features and will pick up their mannerisms. As he or she gets older their child will also pick up their faith. That is why, when parents approach the Church about baptism the parents will be encouraged to think through their own faith and the part it plays in their life.

The fact that parents have asked to have their baby baptized shows that they recognize the importance of God in their life. Parents want the best for their child and have a desire to share the life of Christ with them. That is why Our Lady of the Pines requires Baptismal classes for parents and godparents of infants. Baptisms are scheduled with the parish office, and we ask that the parents call Deacon Bob at 495-2351 ext 19 to schedule an appointment. There are two Baptism classes required with the parents and godparents. The classes are held on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month at 7 PM. If Baptism is requested for an older child, we ask that you contact our Director of Christian Formation at 495-2351 ext 13.

Reflection

A child who lives with criticism, learns to condemn.
A child who lives with hostility, learns to fight.
A child who lives with ridicule, learns to be shy.
A child who lives with shame, learns to feel guilty.
A child who lives with tolerance, learns to be patient.
A child who lives with encouragement, learns confidence.
A child who lives with praises, learns to appreciate.
A child who lives with fairness, learns justice.
A child who lives with security, learns to have faith.
A child who lives with approval, learns to like himself or herself.
A child who lives with acceptance and friendship, learns to find love in the world.

Last Modified: 7/17/2008 5:18:09 PM