Baptism
“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: ‘Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.’” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213)
Many Catholics receive the sacrament of baptism as infants, in the presence of his or her parents and godparents. Through the saving waters of baptism, Catholics believe that we are washed clean from the stain of original sin (caused by the sin of Adam and Eve). The grace we receive in baptism also makes us children of God the Father and welcomes us into the Catholic Church.
Baptism for Infants & Children Under 7 Years Old
Parish policy requires that families must be registered parishioners for at least six months prior to having a child Baptized. The Sacrament is celebrated on the second and fourth Sunday of most months (Baptisms are not offered on Palm Sunday, during Holy Week, Easter Sunday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day). A parent must call the parish office at least one month prior to the requested date in order to receive the necessary Baptism paperwork packet. New parents must also attend a Baptismal Preparation Session.
Godparents must be fully initiated Roman Catholics practicing their faith in order to undertake this role. A Christian Witness (a baptized, practicing Christian of another denomination) may serve along side a Godparent. The Catholic Godparent eligibility form must be signed & sealed by the Godparent’s Pastor and returned to the St. Mark parish office.
The Archdiocese of Baltimore has instituted a new requirement: parents are now required to provide a copy of the child’s birth certificate. In order for St. Mark to issue a Baptismal certificate, the birth certificate must be on file.
Baptism for Adults & Children Over 7 Years Old
Baptisms of school age children may need to be arranged through our Religious Education Program. Please contact Faith Formation Coordinator Daria Kaas at 410-744-6560, ext. 234 or DKaas@@stmarkchurch-catonsville.org for more information.
Baptisms of adults are arranged through our adult education program, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Please contact the parish office at 410- 744-6560, ext. 235 for further details.