Baptism

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states The Sacrament of Baptism: 1213 Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua),4 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."
Water is “the source of life and fruitfulness” (CCC 1218) and has played a central role in Salvation History.  Baptism has been the means of entry into the Christian faith since Christ Himself was baptized and order His disciples to “make disciples of all nations” and to baptize “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 28:19-20).

Since Baptism cleanses us of all sins and is the gateway to Eternal Salvation, it has long been the custom of the Church to baptize children as soon as possible so as to welcome them into the Church as the newest members of the Body of Christ.  Baptism is the first Sacrament, and thus no other Sacrament may be administered prior to the individual’s baptism. 

We are excited for your child to join our parish community!  If you have been blessed with a new child, or if for any other reason you have need of the Sacrament, please contact the parish offices:

St. Bernard – 920-261-5133 
St. Henry – 920-261-7273. 

If you have not had a child baptized within the past five years at either of our parishes, you will need to attend our baptism preparation class.  These classes are held on the first Tuesday of every other month from 6:30-8:30 pm.  Baptisms are usually held following Mass (due to COVID-19 restrictions) on the second and third Sundays of every month.