Baptism Ministry
Helping parents with Baptism preparation and faith
development
“I still did not know that he was the one, but God, who
sent me to baptize with water, had said to me, ‘You will see the Spirit come
down and stay on a man; he is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” “I
have seen it,” said John, “and I tell you that he is the Son of God.” John 1:
32-34
What Are We About?
We walk with parents in making the decision to baptize
their child, in reflecting on what baptism means, in preparing for the liturgy,
and in developing a supportive, ongoing connection to parish life. The Baptismal
ministry is a crucial one in the development of the parish and the growth of the
church. It is not just a time for recording parish information about new
families joining the parish although this is important. Baptism is a unique time
for forging a bond between the individual, the family and the Christian
community. Moreover, when done properly, this is a time for deepening the faith
commitment of the parents so they can step up as role models for their children.
What Do We Do?
We welcome inquirers about Baptism, exchange needed
information with them about parish and diocesan procedures, record official
information, schedule and administer preparation sessions, celebrate the
sacrament of baptism with the family, and work with them in their faith
development after the baptism. To accomplish these key tasks, we work with staff
personnel and other parish ministries. Baptism preparation is held the last
Tuesday of the month in the clubroom at the Parish Ministry Center. This session
is led by the Baptism team and covers the theology of Baptism, symbols of
Baptism, the role of godparents, what it means to raise children in the faith,
and an overview of the Baptism rite.
Want to be Part of the Baptism Ministry Team?
We need people to welcome parents, relay information, and
lead baptism preparation classes. The teams need catechists, hospitality
providers, and, in some cases, child care providers. We always need helpers who
are flexible in meeting the needs of the parents, and yet able to move the
sacramental rite through with dignity and care. Finally, in the post-baptismal
process, the religious education director and the baptismal team need the help
of the parish at-large to develop programs that will connect with young parents
and keep them actively involved in parish life.
What is the Time Commitment?
This varies depending on the minister’s role. Ideally, the
person will attend one monthly preparation meeting per month and one baptismal
ceremony every six weeks.
For More Information
Persons interested in learning more about
the Baptism Ministry should fill out the
Contact Information Form, call Mike Keenan
Director of Religious Education at 847-885-7703, email
Mike Keenan, or
email the parish office:
catholic@sainthubert.org.
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