Little Flower Parish

Baptism is necessary for salvation. The grace of baptism allows us to share in the very life of God. Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door to the other sacraments of the Church.

The sacrament is called Baptism from the Greek baptizein, to baptize or to “plunge” or “immerse.” Baptism in the Catholic Church is done by immersion or pouring of water. (At Little Flower Church the latter method is typically used for adults and infants). Baptism symbolizes our burial into Christ’s death, from which we arise, born again with him as “new creations.” We are freed from original sin and personal sins, are made children of God, members of the Body of Christ, and temples of the Holy Spirit. This is the meaning behind the symbols and actions seen in the rite of Baptism: the anointing with sacred oils, the pouring of the holy water in Baptism, the clothing in a white garment, the lighting of the baptismal candle, and the blessing of the parents, godparents, and all the baptized.