The Baptism on the Hillside – George Harvery
Before ascending into Heaven, Christ commanded to his disciples to go out and baptize: “Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on earth; go therefore, and make disciples of all nations. Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always, until the end of the world” (Mt. 28:18-20).
Through Baptism we are formed in the likeness of Christ: “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (Gal 3:27). The Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 1213, teaches us: “Holy 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 of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.”
If you are seeking baptism for your child at St. Julie Billiart Parish, please speak to one of the priests after Mass, or contact Fr. Greg Quenneville at FrQuenneville@saintjulies.org, or call him at the parish office. Fr. Pignato will speak with you in person or on the phone to introduce you to the joys and responsibilities, of both parents and godparents, concerning this sacrament and to plan further meetings known as Baptismal Preparation.
Congratulations on the birth of your child. Christ waits at the baptismal spring of eternal life!