The Sacrament of Baptism
The Catechism teaches:
"The fruit of Baptism, or baptismal grace, is a rich reality that includes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins, birth into the new life by which man becomes an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ and a temple of the Holy Spirit. By this very fact the person baptized is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ, and made a sharer in the priesthood of Christ" (CCC 1279).
At Baptism, we receive and celebrate God’s free gift of grace and salvation through Christ. It is really God who has chosen us. Thus, Baptism is the beginning of a life-long journey of knowing and following Jesus. Baptism is also the first sacrament of initiation; later will come First Eucharist and Confirmation. The St. Joseph community welcomes your child with open arms and extends its loving support in living a life that reflects Jesus to the world.
You are called to grow in God’s love with your child. As you share your faith with your child, your relationship with God will deepen. As you pray with your family, attend Mass and share your Christian values, your family will grow closer together in love for one another and God. Your child’s Baptism is only the beginning!
In 1992, Pope John Paul II directed the publication of “The Catechism of the Catholic Church.” Paragraph 2226 explains the words used to bless the parents of the baptized child: “That they may be the best of teachers of their children in the way of faith.” Education in the faith by the parents should begin in the child’s earliest years.
Baptismal Signs & Symbols
- Water: The waters of baptism recall Jesus’ own baptism by John the Baptist in the river Jordan. Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ. We are washed clean of sin.
- Oil: At baptism we are first anointed with the oil of the Catechumens and then we are anointed into the life of Christ as “priest, prophet and king
- Light: The child’s individual baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle that stands in the church as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.
- White garment: The white garment that is placed upon us at baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection. Likewise, the white garment or pall that is placed over the coffin at the time of death recalls our baptismal promises and reminds us that we are destined for eternal life.
Baptism requirements for your First Child under the age of 7
- To have your child baptized, you must register with the parish
- A Baptism Prep Class is required for the parents; however, it is only optional for the God parents. Sign up for our next Class by calling 913-631-5983 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Once the prep class is completed and the Baptism paperwork is completed and submitted, the Baptism can be scheduled. We typically hold Baptisms on Sundays after the noon Mass in 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 time slots
Requirements of Baptism for your First Child over the age of 7
- To have your child baptized, you must register with the parish
- Enroll your child in a religious education class to be prepared for the Baptism. If over 18 a person would sign up for an RCIA class. Contact the Christian Formation team to register your child. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 913-248-4592
Requirements for selecting God Parents
Select Faith-filled Catholics who are at least 16 years old, fully initiated in the Catholic Faith and practicing their faith. This person should be someone you know who will inspire your child throughout their lifetime and encourage them to learn and grown in their faith and overall holiness.
One male, and one female may be chosen. Only one Catholic God-Parent is required, the other can be from another Christian denomination, and baptized.
For more information about Baptizing your child, contact the Parish Office at 913-631-5983 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
