Baptism is the first step of our initiation into the Christian community. Call the parish office at (847) 824-2026 to start the registration process.

Baptism for children under 7 years old

Baptisms are celebrated on Saturdays. Call the office to check availability.

Sponsors

The following are the requirements for someone to serve as a godparent:

 1. Must be 16 years old or older

 2. Must have received the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist)

 3. If married, must be married in the Church

 4. If single, must live a chaste life according to the Catholic Church

Baptism Preparation Class

The Baptism Preparation Class lasts two hours and, with the help of videos, covers the natural symbols of life that the Church uses in baptism: water, oil (Sacred Chrism), godparent, white garment, and candle.

The goal is to increase understanding of these symbols and why they are used. We also discuss the roles of parents and godparents after baptism. Babies are welcome!

Class Dates

Baptism preparation classes in English are held on the first Monday of the month. You must call the office to leave your name and for more information about the classes.

Children 7 Years and Older

Parents should contact the office, to discuss our sacramental preparation program.

Adults

RCIA is a conversion process that provides faith formation, instruction, spiritual enrichment, and preparation for the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist.

The process is divided into periods, and the periods are marked by the celebration of Rites. When the candidate feels ready and shows signs of transformation, and the Church discerns their readiness through their continued openness to Jesus and relating to Jesus as their Savior, they are initiated at the Easter Vigil. Participants who are not baptized are known as "catechumens," and those baptized but never catechized or baptized in a valid Christian denomination are considered "candidates."

The periods of RCIA are:

Inquiry: This is when the person comes to ask questions and seeks the opportunity to respond to a call. This candidate may show signs of the Holy Spirit moving in their heart.

Catechumenate: The period of preparation by entering into the proclaimed Word and applying the received message to their life. This is the beginning of openness and awakening to union with the Person of Jesus.

Purification and Enlightenment: This third period takes place during Lent when candidates/catechumens look deeply into their spiritual life and become aware of the steps they must take to become members of the Body of Christ. This involves deeper prayer and some distancing from material or worldly distractions. Practices of prayer, penance, and fasting are common for this season, along with spiritual activities available in the parish. A serious look at sin and ways to avoid it is addressed.

Mystagogy: This is the final stage of RCIA, the period of post-baptismal catechesis, whose name comes from the Greek word meaning “entering into the mystery.” Candidates have looked at the Paschal Mystery from afar, have gone through the Rites of Initiation, and are now experiencing the path of a neophyte Catholic. This period lasts a year, with the newly baptized/received taking the first steps toward a deeper communion with the Lord by exploring the Paschal Mystery. We learn that formation is a lifelong process, so we continue the journey.

Vocabulary:

Catechumen: An unbaptized person who enters the Order of Catechumens in preparation for Christian Initiation.

Candidate: A baptized and uncatechized Catholic or a person who has received valid baptism in a Christian denomination who seeks further preparation for the sacraments of initiation.

Valid Baptism: A celebration of baptism that uses the Trinitarian formula (in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and appropriate use of water, immersion/pouring over the head.

Sponsor: A practicing Catholic who serves as a representative of the community to assist a candidate on their initiation journey.

Want to know more about RCIA? Contact Deacon Bill Warmouth

Interested in becoming an RCIA sponsor? Contact Deacon Bill Warmouth