Baptism is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation in the Roman Catholic Church.  (The other two being First Eucharist and Confirmation.)  Through this Sacrament: we are freed from the shackles of the origin of all sin, fear and greed caused selfishness; we become members of the Church, the Body of Christ; our souls receive an indelible mark that identifies us as children of God; we are called to service, to spread the Word of God to all nations and peoples, to make our lives holy and loving.  Without Baptism, we are not able to validly receive any of the other Sacraments of the Church.

Baptism is one of the most powerful and precious gifts a parent can give a child.  Through Baptism, we receive God’s promise that we will never be over-taken by evil.  We might choose it.  We might surrender to it.  But as long as we strive, as long as we follow our Lord Jesus Christ and honestly and sincerely try to live as He did, as He wants us to, evil cannot prevail against us, for we have received that indelible mark on our souls and God has promised to be with us, always.

Here at Guardian Angels Church, we try to involve all of the “first teachers” in the preparation process.  Along with the mothers and fathers (who are required to attend one of the preparation sessions) grand-parents and god-parents are encouraged to attend as well. Our Baptism prep classes are offered in church every-other month, usually on the last Tuesday of the month, by Deacon Jim. Classes begin at 6:30 PM and last about an hour.  It is helpful if you can pre-register, but if not, “walk-ins” are always welcome. For a Baptism Registration Form or for more information please call Jean Rief in the Parish Office at 952-227-4095.

At the time of registration, we will need: the names, phone numbers and addresses of the parents; the child’s name and a copy of the child’s birth certificate.  If you are attending before the birth of your child, we will need a copy of the birth certificate at the time you schedule the baptism.  We also will need the e-mail addresses for all parents, godparents, and perhaps grandparents.

We have a lot of information to share with you and rather than bombard you with a huge stack of brochures and inserts all at once, (which research tells us usually doesn’t get read!) you will, in smaller doses and over a period of time, receive articles and information regarding the Sacrament of Baptism via e-mail…What does it mean when the priest or deacon does this?  Who can I pick as a god-parent? Etc…

If you have specific questions or concerns, feel free to call the office: 952.227.4000.   As a Parish, as part of the Church Universal, we look forward to the opportunity to join you and your children on this amazing journey of faith.