As Catholic Christians, we are of a faith and a family called into the mystery of God. We have many traditions and sacraments meant to call us deeper toward Him. Baptism gives us the first invitation to join the faith that will comfort, sustain, and save us.
In a conversation with Deacon Larry about the Rite of Baptism, he mentioned that we have seen an overall decrease in the amount of children and people coming to baptism at St. Isidore and also the wider Catholic church. Deacon Larry spoke of how it used to be a tradition, a hallmark in the first step of faith. Lately, though, it does not seem as important to young people, one that some approach as an insurance policy they obtain to check off their list.
I wish to call each of us to reflect a little more upon this newer trend. Oh, certainly, we are all busy, but in keeping this sacrament, and those that follow, we are joining in a larger community. It is one that will be there for us down the road as we rear our children, struggle with worries, and cope with difficult events. Deacon Larry the larger church, and the absolute importance of parents and godparents as the first role models of faith. In the very same way that babies and children learn to trust their parents, and have that trust rewarded with comfort and sustenance, we too trust in the Lord when we place our faith in Him. We model that trust when we respond to Him by accepting His invitation to baptism.
Here at St. Isidore, we celebrate baptisms on scheduled Sundays during Masses, or during a few Sunday afternoons. New parents and godparents attend a monthly baptismal prep class.. This class covers details of the baptism service, but moreover, Deacon Larry added, commends these parents and godparents for this first step as a family and as a community of faith. Our baptismal team is led by Christine and John Brannigan, Deacon Oscar and his wife facilitate the very same for our Spanish-speaking parishioners. Christine Brannigan mentioned that new members have joined this ministry, too, by indicating on their stewardship card.