In Catholic teaching, Baptism is stated to be "necessary for salvation by actual reception or at least by desire". Baptism is the first of three sacraments of Catholic Christian initiation and is ordinarily performed by a Bishop, Priest or Deacon. In Baptism, all sins are forgiven, original sin and all personal sins (if one is an adult) and signifies liberation from its instigator the devil. Baptism is conferred today by pouring water three times on the recipient's head, while reciting the phrase:"I baptize you in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
Baptism is a sacrament by which a person, whether a baby, child, or adult, receives an indelible spiritual mark, is cleansed of all sin and is reborn into the family of God, being sanctified by Christ to everlasting life by means of the sign of water and the action of the Holy Spirit.

Baptizing a child:

To inquire about a child baptism, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child should contact the parish office to set up an initial appointment. During the initial appointment, the family will:

• Discuss any questions they have regarding the sacrament.
• Complete a Baptism Intake Form providing general information including what Church they are registered members of (MHC Parish, or another Catholic Parish) and attend regularly. If they are registered at another Parish, they must be a Catholic in good standing with another Parish and provide a letter of good standing.
• Select the child's Godparents and have them complete the Godparent(s) Letter of Eligibility. At least one Godparent is required and if there are two, at least one should be Catholic.
• Participate in any required preparation classes along with the child's Godparents.

Baptizing an adult:

• Adult baptisms are done through the completion of the Right of Christian Initiation for Adults program (RCIA). The program is usually tailored based on the person’s sacramental history. For more information, click here.