Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters 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).

Baptism imprints on the soul an indelible mark, a spiritual sign. Because of this, Baptism cannot be repeated.

Diocesan Policy requires that new parents/guardians who wish to have their child baptized attend a Pre-Baptism Instruction class. Pre-Baptism classes for parents and guardians of children age 7 and under, as well as expecting parents, are held at Divine Word throughout the year. Check the parish calendar for dates. To register for a class, or for more information, call the Parish Office at (440)256-1412.

 To schedule a baptism, arrangements are to be made in advance by calling the Parish Office. Sponsor certificates are required for goparent(s). Please call the Parish Office for more information.

Because children reach the age of reason at about seven years old, they are capable of knowing right from wrong. Therefore, children over the age of seven, as well as adults, who are not baptized receive all three Sacraments of Initiation at the same time (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil. Preparation for these sacraments takes at least one full year to complete. For more information, contact the Director of Religious Education, at (440)256-1412.