Baptism

What is Baptism?
Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation and the beginning and foundation of Christian sacramental life; it is the door which gives access to the other sacraments. The baptized is made a participant in the divine life of the Trinity through sanctifying grace and is incorporated into Christ and his Church. Baptism provides the basis of communion with all Christians.

Procedure for Baptism of infants through age six:

• Parents are invited to visit or call the parish office to register for baptism. The office is located at St. John's Church, 217 York Street in Bangor; Phone: 207-217-6740

Who can be chosen as godparent(s) for your child?
Selected godparents must meet the following canonical qualifications:

• Be at least 16 years of age
• Be fully initiated in the Catholic Church (received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist)
• Be living a sacramental life, which includes regular participation at Mass

• It is necessary to have at least one godparent. There are times when parents can choose one Catholic godparent and then one Christian witness, who is a practicing member of a Protestant religion.
• Godparents need to obtain a Letter of Eligibility from the parish in which they are currently registered and participating, stating that they meet the above criteria.
• Parents are expected to attend one preparation session -- Baptism Prep -- before the baptism of their first child.
• If married, the godparent must be married according to the laws of the Catholic Church. The purpose of the godparent is to guide the child in the ways of the faith so that they might reach heaven. 
• If there are two godparents, one must be male and one female. The relationship of two godparents emulates spiritually the parenthood of the biological parents. 

When do Baptisms occur at St. Paul the Apostle Parish?
Baptisms are celebrated on the first Sunday of the month in our parish.

BAPTISM PREP CLASS is held for all first-time mothers and fathers seeking to have their child baptized in the Catholic Church. The class meets at 6:00-7:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. To register, please call Mary Brown in the parish office at 217-6740.

Children older than seven years of age are invited to participate in the RCIA process adapted for children.

Adults interested in being baptized or making a profession of faith as a Catholic are invited to participate in the RCIA process. The Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are celebrated each year at the Easter Vigil. Interested adults are invited to participate in weekly sessions that meet on Wednesday evenings in the fall. Please call the parish office at (207) 217-6740 to learn more.