The Sacrament of Baptism is "the basis of the whole of 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). 

Baptism is the beginning of the Christian journey through the cleansing of our soul by life-giving water. It is the starting point for our new life in Christ and our membership in the Church as the Body of Christ.  Through Baptism, an individual is welcomed into the Christian family.

"For the grace of Baptism to unfold, the parents' help is important.  So too is the role of the godfather and godmother, who must be firm believers, able and ready to help the newly baptized -- child or adult -- on the road of Chrisian life.  Their task is a truly ecclesial function.  The whole ecclesial community bears some responsibility for the development and safeguarding of the grace given at Baptism"  (Catechism of the Catholic Church, # 1255).

The following statements apply to the baptism of infants and children who have not yet reached the age of formal religious instruction. Adults and children of catechetical age should visit our RCIA site.

• The Sacrament of Baptism is often celebrated on Sundays immediately following the 11am Mass, although the parish tries to accommodate special scheduling requests whenever possible. 
• As preparation for the celebration, both parents and godparents should attend a baptismal preparation class if they have not already done so.  At Immaculate Conception Parish, these are held monthly, usually on the second Thursday of the month, beginning at 5:00pm and lasting about 45 minutes.
• Parents and godparents are also asked to complete a written statement through which they indicate their commitment to the Catholic faith and to being good models of Christian living to the child.

For more details about the baptism of an infant or young child, please click the tab "Process & Requirements."

You may also want to contact the Parish Office at 504.529.1477, ext. 224, for more information.