Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we 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."  CCC 1213

​The following information explains how Baptisms are prepared for and conducted at the Marion Catholic Community Cluster.  

Parents and Godparents

It is required that one parent is a baptized Catholic.
The church allows only two (2) Godparents who take part in the Baptismal Ceremony. Their names will be written in the Church register and on the Baptismal Certificate. Both Godparents must be baptized, and Canon Law requires that at least one Godparent to be over 16 years of age and fully initiated as a Catholic (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation).
A letter of good standing is required everyone who will be a Godparent. For form click HERE
If the elected Godparent is a parishioner at St. John, St. Rose, St. Sebastian, Nativity, or Precious Blood, the form must be filled out affirming they are living in accordance with Catholic teachings. The priest signature is not necessary if the Godparent is from any of the Marion Catholic Community Parishes. 

Preparation

The Archdiocese of Cincinnati requires families to undergo Baptism preparation prior to Baptism. 

It is important that both parents and Godparents are aware of the importance and responsibility that comes from Baptism. It is optional to participate in a preparation session even if you have had other children baptized because the Baptism of each child is important. The short session helps to renew the understanding of the meaning and value of Baptism, and to help the family in a practical way to participate more freely in the ceremony. If possible, both parents should attend the preparation session, and Godparents if available.

Families living outside our parish who cannot attend a Baptism Preparation Session at in our community will need to contact their local parish office and arrange a Baptism Preparation Session within their own parish. You will need to send a certificate of completion prior to scheduling baptism.

Baptismal Preparation is offered on the second Tuesday, 10 times per year at various churches in the Christ Our Light Family at 7:00 PM. Please register no later than the Monday before class.

Scheduling Baptism

Baptism is offered at St. John & Precious Blood on Saturdays at 6:00 pm and Sundays at 12:00 pm. Baptism at St. Sebastian, St. Rose & Nativity are scheduled by request. Reach out to the parish office at 419-925-4775 to confirm the date and time availability.