“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
The Sacrament of Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin, reborn as sons of God, become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission. Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.
infant baptism To schedule an baptism for a child 2nd grade and below, contact Melodee Pohl at 901.373.6011 or [email protected]
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child baptism
St. Ann School students, 3rd grade and above, contact Sara Westrich at [email protected]
PRE Students 3rd grade and above, contact Brittany Martinez at [email protected] |
adult baptism
To schedule an adult baptism, or for information on joining the Catholic Church through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), contact Fr. Jacek Kowal 901.373.6011 or [email protected]
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baptismal symbols
Holy waterThe Holy Water recall Jesus’ own baptism by St. John the Baptist in the river Jordan. The Holy Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ. We are washed clean of sin.
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oilAt baptism we are anointed into the life of Christ as “priest, prophet and king.” A cross is traced on the person’s forehead as are reminder that we are inheritors of the Kingdom of God.
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CandleThe baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle that stands in the church as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.
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white garmentThe white garment that is placed upon us at baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection. Likewise, the white garment or pall that is placed over the coffin at the time of death recalls our baptismal promises and reminds us that we are destined for eternal life.
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While in ordinary circumstances, sacraments in the Catholic Church are administered validly by a member of the ordained clergy, in an emergency situation, the sacrament of baptism can be administered by anyone.
In case of emergency, any person can baptize provided that he have the intention of doing that which the Church does and provided that he pour water on the candidates head while saying: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (CCC 1284).
In case of emergency, any person can baptize provided that he have the intention of doing that which the Church does and provided that he pour water on the candidates head while saying: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (CCC 1284).