Baptism

- 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: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."
  (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1213)
- In Baptism, we are marked as children of God and offered the gift of salvation, initiation into the Christian community, and the beginning of life in Jesus Christ. Baptism opens the door to the other sacraments, with Eucharist and Confirmation completing the initiation process.
  
  At St. Matthew, we are honored to have the responsibility of preparing parents for this Sacrament and aiding them in any spiritual growth necessary. The responsibility of teaching a child about Christ and the Church belongs primarily to the parents and is a lifelong commitment. The goal of Baptism Preparation is to empower parents to grow in their own faith life. It is difficult to pass on a faith that was learned as a child but not lived as an adult. The Saint Matthew community welcomes your child and desires to accompany your family on your lifelong journey of faith.
  
  My name is Katie Ryzenga and I am the Baptism Coordinator at Saint Matthew. I will be happy to accompany you through the preparation process so that your child can be welcomed into the Church through Baptism as soon as possible. Please see below the steps of the preparation process. Once you submit your Baptism Registration Form I will be in touch with you to walk you through the rest of the process. Don't hesitate to reach out to me at 614-532-0620 or [email protected]. I look forward to meeting you and I hope I can assist your family as you journey in faith together.
  
  The Baptism Preparation Process
- Step One Complete and submit Baptism Registration Form
- Step Two Preparation Meeting / Ongoing Formation
- Step Three Select Godparents for your Child
- Step Four Submit Sponsor Forms
- Step Five Schedule the Baptism
- Click here for FINAL DETAILS about your child's Baptism day and the Rite of Baptism.
Special Circumstances
- Non-parishioners? If you are a parishioner at another parish, we need a signed letter with a parish seal from that pastor granting permission for your child to be baptized at St. Matthew. If you live within the parish bounds and want to baptize your child and start living out your Catholic faith here, please register as parishioners.
  
  Not married in the Catholic Church? You will be required to meet with a priest to share about your journey and receive an invitation from the Church for a Sacramental marriage.
  
  Single Parent or not married? In most circumstances this will not prevent a timely Baptism for your child. The most important elements are permission from all parents with custody of the child and a potential meeting with a priest to make sure you have all spiritual resources that you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a fee to have my child Baptized?
  There is not a fee, but many parents make a free will gift to the priest or deacon for his services.
  
  When will I receive the Baptism Certificate for my child?
  The parish office will mail the Baptism Certificate to you within a few weeks after the Baptism. If your child ever needs a copy of their Baptism Certificate later, perhaps for school registration or for marriage, you can contact the parish office.
  
  What should my child wear for Baptism?
  A white garment is an ancient sign of the newly baptized Christian’s new life in Christ. Your child’s baptismal garment need not be a traditional baptismal or christening gown; it can be any clothing that is predominately white.