Prepares parents and godparents for the baptismal journey, emphasizing the sacrament's significance and their role in faith development.
Ministries

Baptism Preparation

Prepares parents and godparents for the baptismal journey, emphasizing the sacrament's significance and their role in faith development.
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Prepares parents and godparents for the baptismal journey, emphasizing the sacrament's significance and their role in faith development.

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Baptismal preparation at St. John the Evangelist Church is a vital ministry that equips parents and godparents with the understanding and tools necessary for the spiritual journey that begins with the sacrament of Baptism. This ministry is dedicated to welcoming children into the Catholic faith and preparing families to actively engage in nurturing the faith life of the baptized child.

Importance of Baptismal Preparation

Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation in the Catholic Church, marking the entry of a person into the Christian community. It is a sacrament of faith that requires careful preparation because it involves profound theological and spiritual commitments. Baptismal preparation classes at St. John the Evangelist Church provide essential catechesis on the meaning of Baptism, its role in the life of faith, and the responsibilities it entails for parents and godparents.

The preparation process is designed to deepen the participants' understanding of the sacrament, ensuring that they recognize the commitment to raising the child in a faith-filled environment. This preparation is not only about imparting knowledge but also about fostering a transformative encounter with Christ and the Church.

Who is it for?

  • Parents and Godparents of Infants to Children Aged 7: These sessions are tailored to help parents and godparents understand their roles and prepare spiritually for the baptism of their young children.
  • Children Aged Over 10 Years: Older children receive a more comprehensive preparation that aligns with their understanding and includes the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion.
  • Adults: Adults undergo the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which prepares them to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion.

For families and individuals interested in baptismal preparation:

  • For Infants to Children Aged 7: Contact Charlotte Dickey at 850-303-1200 or via email at charlotte.dickey@saintjohnpc.org to register for the "Baptism in the Family of God" program.
  • For Children Over 10 Years Old: Contact Dot Wagner at youth@saintjohnpc.org for registration and information about the preparation process.
  • For Adults: Contact the parish office at 850-763-1821 or via email at saintjohnpc@saintjohnpc.org to learn more about the RCIA program.

Participation in a preparation class is a prerequisite before Baptism can be scheduled. These classes are crucial as they ensure that parents, godparents, and adult candidates are well-prepared to embrace the responsibilities of the sacrament and to live out the commitments they are making.

By engaging in baptismal preparation at St. John the Evangelist Church, participants are not only preparing for a sacrament but are also taking steps towards lifelong discipleship and active participation in the church community. This ministry supports the foundational belief that every baptized individual has a place where they belong within the Church, fostering a sense of spiritual home and community.

Richard E. Todd

Baptism: A Bible Study Wordbook for Kids

Engaging children's guide to understanding baptism.

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