Baptism

Baptism marks the start of our Christian initiation, welcomes us into the Body of Christ,
the Church, and calls us to share in her mission.  Through Baptism, we are reborn into
Christ Jesus, called into new life with Him, and freed from the bonds of sin.
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit,
and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.
(Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213)

Though some people are baptized as adults, most Catholics receive Baptism as young children.  This is referred to as “infant baptism.” 

Infant Baptism 

Parents’ decision to have their child baptized by a priest or a deacon of their parish is an act of true love toward their child. Baptism allows the child to be welcomed into the Church at an early age, and to grow in the love and grace of God in a very special way. In the Gospels, Jesus says that to love God one must love as children do. Baptism, hence, is a gift from the parents who wish for their child to grow in the knowledge of God and as part of the Christian community, and for their child to have the support of godparents as guides in the faith. 

Baptism of Children 7 Years Old and Older

Children who have reached the age of seven and have not been baptized are invited into the process of Christian initiation based on the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) adapted to the age and needs of each child.  This process will prepare young people and their families for the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and possibly Confirmation and  For more information, please contact the Director of Faith Formation, Tommy Cordova at 713-869-3783.

Although there is no set fee, it is customary on the occasion of a Baptism to make an offering to the church to help support parish ministries or to the Priest or Deacon performing the rite. You may want to do this online or in person on the day of the Baptism.