Baptism
Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)
Baptism Preparation
Please call the parish office 210-635-8539 to begin the process.
Prerequisites: Parents must register at the Parish Office prior to attending class. Both Parents and Sponsors must attend the Baptism Class prior to setting the Baptism date.
Age Requirements: Children over the age of 7 years old must be attending the Religious Education Classes (CCD) for one year prior to receiving the Sacrament of Baptism. Student will receive the Sacrament of Baptism at the Easter Vigil.
Required documents: Birth Certificate of Child and Confirmation Certificate of Sponsors. These documents must be available prior to attending class. Class Registration must be done at least two weeks prior to attending class. Birth Certificate and Sponsors Confirmation Certificates must be available at time of registration or prior to attending class.
Freed from Sin
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.
- 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 a reminder that we are inheritors of the Kingdom of God.
- 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.
- 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. Likewise, the white garment or pall that is placed over the coffin at the time of death recalls our baptismal promises and reminds us that we are destined for eternal life.