Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation (with Confirmation and Eucharist) in the Catholic Church.  For  adults, Baptism is usually celebrated at the Easter Vigil as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.  Children may be presented for Baptism only by their parents or legal guardians.  The following requirements apply to Baptism of infants and children:

• At least one parent must be a practicing Catholic and member of St. Luke parish.  (Infants/children from other parishes may be baptized at St. Luke only with specific written permission of the pastor of domicile.)

• Parents are required to attend one of the Baptism preparation sessions which are offered throughout the year in conjunction with our regular AACT (All Ages Catholic Teaching) gatherings.

• Godparents must have received the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist).

• A "baptized and believing Christian from a separated Church" may act as a godparent along with a Catholic godparent.

• According to Canon 868, the baptism of an infant may be deferred if there is pastoral concern about the child being raised in an appropriate environment.

Baptisms at St. Luke are celebrated at Mass in accordance with the Rite of Baptism for Children which encourages the presence of the "entire community."

They are usually celebrated on the third Sunday of each month, excluding the season of Lent.  Parents are asked to notify St. Luke parish at least one month before to schedule Baptisms.

Baptism Preparation Sessions for 2012 will be held on the following dates:

• Sunday, January 8, 2012 in conjunction with AACT.
• Sunday, April 29, 2012 in conjunction with AACT.
• Sunday, July 22, 2012 in the Martha & Mary Room.
• Sunday, October 14, 2012 in conjunction with AACT.