Friday evening, July 17, 2026
Meeting assets for Baptism Class are ready!
Meeting summary
Quick recap
Deacon Dennis conducted a baptism preparation class for parents and godparents at St. Catherine's parish. He began with an opening prayer from Matthew's Gospel and provided an overview of his background as a married deacon with eight children, explaining that holiness is possible for lay people outside of the priesthood. The class was structured into three parts: first, Deacon Dennis told the story of salvation, covering the Bible from Genesis through the New Testament and explaining how baptism washes away original sin and begins the process of making individuals adopted sons and daughters of God. Second, parents and godparents were invited to share their reflections on why they wanted their children baptized, with participants sharing responses about wanting their children closer to God, providing spiritual support, and celebrating faith milestones. Third, Deacon Dennis explained the seven sacraments, emphasizing that baptism is the gateway sacrament, and detailed the proper procedures for the baptism ceremony including arriving early, dressing the baby in white, and the specific roles of parents and godparents during the ritual. The class concluded with a closing prayer and blessings for the participants and their babies.
Next steps
Ryan
Contact Yasmin or Jasmine from the parish office after the class to obtain the certificate of completion for the baptism prep class.
Collaboration
Parents and godparents: Arrive at least 15 minutes early for the baptism ceremony with the baby and appropriate white/off-white clothing.
Godparents: Be present and stand next to the parents during the baptism ceremony.
Parents and godparents: Reflect on the story of salvation and the role of baptism in the child's life as discussed in the class.
Summary
Baptism Preparation Class
Deacon led a baptism prep class and opened with a prayer from Matthew chapter 28, discussing Jesus's appearance to his 11 disciples on the Mount of Olives after his resurrection. The reading focused on Jesus's instructions to make disciples of all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Baptism Class Introduction Session
Deacon Dennis opened a baptism class by introducing himself and sharing his personal background, including his 23 years of marriage and 12 years as a deacon since his ordination in 2014. He emphasized that all baptized Catholics, including married parents, are called to holiness in their daily lives, not just priests and nuns. The class was described as more intimate with smaller attendance, and Dennis indicated he would take attendance later in the session.
Baptism Preparation Meeting
Deacon conducted a meeting to welcome participants preparing for or involved in baptism ceremonies. He took attendance and welcomed attendees including Joseph, Shayna, Shane, Danielle, Elena, and others. Deacon outlined that the session would have three parts, beginning with a brief summary about baptism as cultural initiation, using the example of C-3PO from Star Wars who tells stories to help others become part of a tribe.
Bible History and Baptism Plan
Deacon outlined a plan to summarize the Bible's history of salvation in 10-15 minutes, explaining that this story represents the reason for their gathering and the importance of baptism. He described three parts to the session: covering the history of salvation, conducting reflections with questions for participants, and explaining the rite of baptism including what makes it significant as a sacrament. The session began with Deacon introducing the Bible's structure and mentioning God's creation of Adam and Eve in the Book of Genesis.
Biblical Creation and Redemption Teachings
Deacon explained the biblical story of creation, original sin, and the role of Jesus as the savior who redeemed humanity through his death and resurrection. He described how baptism washes away original sin and makes people adopted sons and daughters of God, with the Catholic Church continuing Jesus's mission through the sacraments and apostolic succession from Peter to the current pope. The discussion concluded with an overview of how faith is passed down through generations and the anticipation of Jesus's future return in glory.
Particular Judgment and Baptism Discussion
Deacon explained the concept of particular judgment, which occurs at the moment of death when souls are judged and either sent to heaven, purgatory, or hell. He distinguished this from the general judgment, which is the second coming of Christ when bodies are reunited with souls and the world ends. The discussion concluded with Deacon inviting parents and godparents to reflect on their reasons for wanting their child baptized, asking parents to share their reflections and godparents to consider how they would support the parents in this sacred rite.
Baptism and Godparent Responsibilities
The meeting focused on discussing the reasons for baptizing babies and the responsibilities of godparents. Parents and godparents shared their motivations, including wanting to dedicate their children to God, raise them in the Christian faith, and provide spiritual support. Deacon emphasized the importance of godparents' spiritual role and explained the significance of baptism, comparing it to planting a seed of faith and describing the sacred oils used in the ceremony. The discussion highlighted the commitment required from godparents and the lasting impact of baptism on the child's spiritual life.
Baptism Preparation Class Overview
Deacon Dennis conducted a baptism preparation class covering the seven Catholic sacraments and the baptism ceremony process. He explained that sacraments are outward signs instituted by Christ to give grace, and outlined the three sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. The class included detailed instructions for parents and godparents about arriving early, dressing the baby in white, and participating in the baptism ceremony, including the specific responses required during the ritual.
