The Sacrament of Baptism is the first sacrament to be received. Baptism is the foundation of our life in Christ and the beginning of a lifelong journey of discipleship. Through baptism we are freed from sin and incorporated into the family of God and we become members of the Church, the living body of Christ. Today, as it was in the days of the apostles, water is poured over the person being baptized while the celebrant announces: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

Catholic families are encouraged to baptize their children soon after birth. However, the Sacrament of Baptism can be received at any age. Whether a person is baptized as an infant or as an adult, Baptism is the initial way a person experiences the embrace and mercy of our loving God.

At St. Ambrose Parish, infant and child baptisms are celebrated after the necessary Pre-Baptism preparation session. Please call the parish office to register for the class and to schedule your child’s baptism.  We have a special class for pre-kindergarten 3 to 7 years old.  Contact Deacon Bill for more information on this special class.

Adults and children of catechetical age (7 years) who have not been baptized participate in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults with a special tract for children.

Policy on Sacraments of Initiation for Children 2022

Guidelines for St. Ambrose Baptism:

1. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) must be registered and practicing St. Ambrose Parishioners for at least three months or have a letter from your most recent parish pastor indicating your membership in good standing.

2. Clergy have a responsibility (obligation) to have reasonable confidence that the child will be raised in the faith before agreeing to a Baptism.  One way we can gain this confidence is by your weekly Mass attendance.  If you are not attending weekly Mass, please consider your child’s Baptism as the opportunity to start.  Please say Hi so we can get to know your family better.

3. Canon Law requires a Baptismal Preparation Session.  It is highly recommended that the Godparents attend.

4. Godparents – At least one Godparent must be fully initiated and a practicing Catholic. The other Godparent may be a Christian witness.  If both Godparents are Catholic, one female and one male.

5. Baptism are typically done at the Mass you normally attended, except during Lent and Advent.  Your child’s Baptism is a Parish wide event, a public celebration.  That is why Baptism during Mass is preferred.  Other arrangements can be made for family reasons.

A date for Baptism may be set after the Baptism Preparation Session. Typically Baptism Preparation Session are scheduled every quarter.  We can make other arrangements if needed.

A Message from Father Steve:

GODPARENTS