The sacraments will make you strong!
Pope francis

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 and reborn as sons and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers of the Church’s mission:
“Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” (CCC 1213)

BAPTISMAL CLASSES AT OUR LADY OF FATIMA PARISH​
At Baptism, infants and children up through six years of age are initiated into the Christian community and begin a life-long journey as a committed disciple of Christ. Since the infant or small child cannot make this commitment on their own, the parent who requests Baptism for their child states that they wish to transmit the faith in which they believe and live to their child. Parents wishing to have their infant or child baptized are required to attend Baptism Preparation.

​We hold Baptism preparation classes throughout the year. This gives parents an opportunity to reflect on their relationship with Christ, the meaning of Baptism and to have questions answered concerning the Sacrament of Baptism and the ceremony. Parents are asked to contact the parish office to begin preparing for their child’s Baptism. Attending the baptism sessions before the anticipated birth or adoption is advised so that we may celebrate this joyful time of watching and waiting with you.

GODPARENTS
Many people are not aware, but the role of a godparent is not only to be a support of faith in the life of the child but also to be a representative of the community of faith into which the child is being baptized.  As such, it follows that the godparent is a fully initiated, active member of the Roman Catholic community.  Full initiation in the life of the Church reflects the very life of the Trinity: Father (Baptism) Son (Eucharist) and Holy Spirit (Confirmation). Therefore, a godparent has received these three sacraments and is active in the sacramental and evangelical mission of the church.  Godparents are asked to certify their eligibility through their parish.

Who has the opportunity to attend Baptism classes?
​First time expectant parents;
parents of children up to 7 years of age who are not baptized;
those anticipating the adoption of a child;
godparents are encouraged to attend;
any friend or relative of the child or parent who wishes to offer support.