Baptism: The Door of the Church:

The Sacrament of Baptism is often called “The door of the Church,” because it is the first of the seven sacraments not only in time (since most Catholics receive it as infants) but in priority, since the reception of the other sacraments depends on it. It is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation, the other two being the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Once baptized, a person becomes a member of the Church. Traditionally, the rite (or ceremony) of baptism was held outside the doors of the main part of the church, to signify this fact.

The Necessity of Baptism

Christ Himself ordered His disciples to preach the Gospel to all nations and to baptize those who accept the message of the Gospel. In His encounter with Nicodemus (John 3:1-21), Christ made it clear that baptism was necessary for salvation:

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

For Catholics, the sacrament is not a mere formality; it is the very mark of a Christian because it brings us into new life in Christ.

At Saint Bernadette, arrangements for baptism should be made through the Parish Office by calling 440-734-1300.

Parents are required to attend a Pre-Baptismal class prior to the baptism of their first child.  Classes are head on Sundays at 12:00pm in the community room of the church.  Click here to register for the next class.

Baptism, for those past the age of reason (generally the age of 7) is part of the O.C.I.A. (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults).

Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)