Baptism is one of the sacraments of initiation, the others being first communion and confirmation.

In the Catholic faith Baptism of infants reflects a parent’s desire to raise their child in the Catholic faith. Infant baptism is normally performed under the age of one. We realize that this expectation is not always available for many reasons. In this case, the following guidelines outline Baptism by age.

Baptism arrangements must be made by the parents of the child who is being baptized. Parents must be registered members of St Rita in the Desert (at least 3 months in advance) or have written permission from the pastor of the parish in which live to have a baptism performed at St Rita’s.

Parents desiring to arrange a baptism for their child should review the instructions and information provided in the Baptism Forms page and complete the requested information. The first step in arranging a Baptism is to submit a Notification of Intent to Baptize informing the parish of your desire to baptize your child and make an appointment to meet with the pastor.

Children 7 - 18

Children that have reached the age of reason (age 7) will be prepared for the Sacraments of Initiation through our Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC) Program.  For more information, please contact the Religious Education director at [email protected].

Adult Baptism (19 and over)

Adults wishing to be baptized must go through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, (R.C.I.A.). Please visit our Becoming Catholic page under Faith Formation. Additionally, you may contact the RCIA Director at [email protected].

BAPTISM LINKS
Notification of Intent to Baptize
Baptism Forms