Baptism

Jesus answered, "Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit."

- John 3:5 -

Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation in the Catholic Church and is the foundation of the Christian life. Through Baptism, we are freed from original sin, welcomed into God’s family, and become members of the Church. It is through this sacrament that we begin our journey of faith and receive the gift of new life in Christ.

In Baptism, water is poured over the person’s head while the priest or deacon says, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” This outward sign of water symbolizes cleansing, rebirth, and the beginning of a new life with Jesus.

Baptism is not simply a ceremony or tradition—it is a powerful sacrament where God’s grace is truly given. The baptized person receives the Holy Spirit, becomes a child of God, and is called to live as a disciple of Christ. Parents and godparents also make a commitment to help the child grow in faith and remain connected to the Church.

The Catholic Church encourages families to baptize their children and continue nurturing their faith through prayer, Mass attendance, religious education, and participation in the sacraments.

Baptism reminds us that we are loved by God, chosen by Him, and called to live as His children every day.

Infant Baptism

The Catholic Church joyfully welcomes children ages 6 and under to receive the Sacrament of Baptism. Baptism is the beginning of a child’s journey of faith and the first step into the life of the Church. Through this sacrament, the child becomes a beloved child of God, is freed from original sin, and receives the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Parents requesting Baptism for their child are asked to be registered parishioners and actively practicing the Catholic faith. Parents and godparents also take on the important responsibility of helping the child grow in faith by attending Mass regularly, teaching prayer at home, and living as examples of Christian life.

Typically, the process includes:

Completing a Baptism registration form
Providing the child’s birth certificate
Attending a Baptism preparation class
Selecting Catholic godparents who meet Church requirements

Godparents must:

Be at least 16 years old
Have received the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation
Be practicing Catholics living in harmony with the faith

Please send an email to steoffice@stewnc.org indicating the month in which you would like the baptism to take place. Baptisms and classes are held once a month.

We are honored to walk with your family as you prepare to welcome your child into the Catholic faith through the Sacrament of Baptism.

Child/Teen Baptism

Children in grades 1st-8th grade who have not been baptized are warmly welcomed into the Catholic Church through a special preparation process designed for their age and faith journey. At this age, children are considered to have reached the “age of reason,” meaning they are able to begin understanding the faith and actively participate in learning about Jesus and the Church.

Preparation for Baptism includes faith formation classes where students learn about God’s love, prayer, the Bible, the Mass, and the Sacraments. Depending on the child’s age and previous religious education, preparation may also include First Reconciliation and First Communion.

Children must first complete one year of First Communion catechesis before being baptized.

Parents play an essential role in this journey by participating in Mass, supporting faith learning at home, and helping their child grow spiritually. Parents and sponsors are encouraged to walk closely with the child throughout the preparation process.

Required documents generally include:

Child’s birth certificate
Faith Formation Registration
Any previous sacramental records if applicable

We are excited to accompany your child on this beautiful journey toward becoming fully united with Christ and His Church.

Please contact Xenia Del Cid to register for faith formation at stereled@stewnc.org or 919-404-9393 (text okay).

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Adult Baptism

Adults seeking Baptism in the Catholic Church are welcomed through the OCIA process (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). OCIA is a journey of faith designed to help adults learn about Jesus Christ, the teachings of the Catholic Church, prayer, Scripture, and the Sacraments while growing in a relationship with God and the parish community.

Adult Baptism is intended for those who have never been baptized in any Christian denomination. Through this process, participants prepare to receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion.

The OCIA journey includes:

Weekly faith formation sessions
Study of Scripture and Catholic teachings
Opportunities for prayer and reflection
Participation in parish life and community
Guidance from catechists, sponsors, and clergy

Throughout the year, participants take part in special rites and blessings that mark their spiritual growth and preparation. The journey culminates at the Easter Vigil Mass, where catechumens receive the Sacraments and are fully welcomed into the Catholic Church.

Adults interested in beginning this journey are encouraged to contact the Faith Formation department for registration and information about upcoming OCIA sessions. You may click here for more information:

No matter where you are in your faith journey, the Church welcomes you with open arms and walks with you as you grow closer to Christ.