Baptism

What is Baptism?
The Sacrament of Baptism is the foundation of Christian life, the entrance to the life in the Spirit and access to the other Sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from original sin, become heirs to the Kingdom of God, are incorporated into the Church and become sharers in the Mission of the Church.

What Happens During Baptism?
During the celebration of Baptism, a priest or deacon blesses the water that will be used as a sign of rebirth. The celebrant prays "We ask you, Father, with your Son to send the Holy Spirit upon the water of this font. May all who are buried with Christ in the death of baptism rise also with him to newness of life."
The priest or deacon then pours the water on the heads of the people being baptized or immerses them, saying, "(Name), I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The water and these words are the signs of the sacrament of Baptism. At this moment, those being baptized are reborn of water and the Holy Spirit. They are reborn into the divine life of God's grace, become members of the Church, the Body of Christ.
The newly baptized are next anointed with holy oil just as Christ was anointed as priest, prophet and king. This shows that they share in Jesus' work of bringing about God's peace and justice in the world.
The newly baptized babies are given a bib, a candle and a rosary.  A candle is lit from the Easter candle and given to the newly baptized as a sign that they are to keep the light of Christ burning brightly by always following the ways of Jesus.

Scheduling a Baptism
Baptisms of infants and young children are celebrated for families who are registered members at St. Edward Church on the 2nd Sunday of each month after the 10:45 a.m. Mass (unless otherwise stated). Both parents must attend a baptism preparation class, especially if the baptism is for a first child or it has been more than two years since the last child was baptized.
When a child of teachable age is to be baptized, a process of preparation is provided for the child, according to his or her age and ability. Please contact the parish office, 740-587-3254 for more information or to schedule a Baptism. Baptismal sponsors must provide a letter from their church stating that they are active, registered members of their church and are qualified to act as a sponsor complete with the church seal. This applies to Catholic and non-Catholic sponsors.