Jesus said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all men, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

The Sacrament of Infant baptism at St. Hedwig is held on the last Sunday of every month, except during Lent.  Infant baptism is for children from birth until the age of six.  Since infant baptisms are held only once a month, many families participate.  It is necessary therefore, to have several ministry teams overseeing this rite.

The Baptism Ministry currently consists of two married couples .  The coordinators serve the parish community by facilitating preparation classes for the parents of children to be baptized.  These classes are held once a month and they prepare the parents with knowledge of the sacrament to enable them to foster growth in their own faith and that of their children.

On the day of the infant baptism, the coordinators serve as host/hostess for the baptism.  They prepare the church for the celebration with the necessary items required for the baptism.  They greet the families and friends as they arrive, seat them in their assigned place in the church and answer any questions or concerns they might have regarding the ceremony.  The coordinators are also there to assist the priest or deacon as needed during the ceremony.

Jesus said,  "Let the children come to me."  The rebirth of an infant through the waters of baptism is an opportunity for us to renew our pledge to God.  The Sacrament of Baptism is the first building block in the spiritual foundation along their journey toward our Savior.  It is the greatest gift a parent can give to their children, the gift of life in Christ.

If you are a practicing Catholic with a desire to serve others and would like more information regarding this ministry, please contact the parish office at (562) 296-9000.