Baptism

We emerge from the waters of Baptism a NEW person; we are given a candle lighted from the Easter candle. We hear the words: Receive the light of Christ. May it always be kept burning brightly. Baptism purifies us from sin and gives us new birth in the Holy Spirit (CCC 1262).

Listen to the powerful words of St. Paul to Timothy, "For this reason I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God that you have through the imposition of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control (2 Tim 6-7).

For Infants: 

The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on Sunday following the 11:00 a.m. Mass in Church.  For a child to be baptized at St. Gerard Majella, the parents must be members of our parish and faithful Catholics.   To assure that parents have a full understanding of what it means to have their child Baptized into the Catholic faith they will be asked to attend a learning and faith-sharing gathering. Materials for Godparents are available. This can be coordinated by the parish office at 314.965.3985.

For School-Age Children:  Ready, Set, Grow 

Children who have reached the age of reason, (usually seven or older), who have not been baptized or who have been baptized in another faith, and/or who have not received the Sacraments of the Eucharist or Reconciliation at the traditional age of second grade, may seek membership in the Catholic Church through this process.  The children’s progress in faith education and spiritual formation depends on the help and example of their companions and the influence of their parents.  Parent involvement is essential.  Call the parish office at 314-965-3985.

For Adults - Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process in which a person who is not baptized or baptized in another faith denomination journeys with others like them and other Catholics to be fully initiated in the Catholic faith.  It is a process of formation.  There are four steps in this formation process which culminates at the Easter Vigil with the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.  The parish community, through its prayers, witness, worship, service, and catechesis, offers the invitation and support for the men and women to be initiated into the Catholic Church.  Weekly meetings are held beginning in September and ending in May.  Call the parish office at 314-965-3985 for more details.