Baptism, which is the first sacrament that we receive, opens the door to all the other sacraments. Through the waters of Baptism, a person becomes a Christian and a member of the Church. Baptism is the beginning of our discipleship in Jesus Christ.

The Church baptizes infants, children, teenagers and adults.

Infants and children are baptized when their parents are ready to accept the responsibility of sharing God’s love revealed in Jesus Christ and his teachings within the Roman Catholic faith.

Families who are having their baby or child baptized at Holy Family Parish first participate in catechesis to better enable them to understand and undertake the commitment of Christian parenthood.

Older Children and teenagers prepare for the Sacrament of Baptism by participating in a process of learning and formation called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Participants receive guidance and support on their journey to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church.

Godparents are individuals, chosen by parents, who promise to assist the parents in raising their child in the Catholic faith. For this reason, godparents are expected to be Catholics who are good examples and role models of Catholic living. Godparents are asked to present a letter from their respective parishes, attesting to their suitability in assuming this role.

Baptisms are normally celebrated at the 9:30AM Mass on Sundays.

We welcome all inquiries regarding the Sacrament of Baptism. For more information, please contact    Holy Family Parish at ndsj@holyfamilyparishworcester.org or by calling the rectory at 508.754.6722.