The Sacrament of Baptism is the foundation for the sacramental life.  Baptism frees us from the bondage of original and actual sin.  Water is poured in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Parents request baptism for infants and children under the age of 7.  Baptism for adults and children 7 years and older takes place at the Easter Vigil through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Infant Baptisms at Queen of Peace

Infant baptisms at Queen of Peace normally take place after the 10:00 AM Mass, although other times can be arranged. 

Parents who are parishioners and who have been married in the Catholic Church may request a baptism either during the 5:00 PM vigil, 8:00 AM or 10:00 AM Sunday Mass. 

Baptismal Symbols

• Water –  Water is a symbol of cleansing and renewal as we begin a new life in Christ.        We are washed clean of sin.
• Oil – Before the water, the priest anoints the infant with the Oil of the Catechumens on the chest, close to the child's heart.  As he makes the Sign of the Cross on the infant, he says:  "We anoint you with the Oil of Salvation in the name of Christ our Savior, may He strengthen you with his power...".  After the water, the infant is anointed on the crown of the head with Sacred Chrism.  As he makes the Sign of the Cross on the child, the minister says:  "God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has freed you from sin, given you a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit... He now anoints you with the Chrism of Salvation.  As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet, and King, so may you live always as a member of his body, sharing eternal life."
• White garment – The white garment that is placed upon us at baptism is a symbol of Christ’s victory over death and his glorious resurrection.
• Light – The baptismal candle is lit from the Paschal or Easter candle as a sign of Christ’s light in the world. At baptism, we receive the light of Christ and are called forth to share this light with the world.

Baptismal Ministers

In ordinary circumstances, baptism is administered by a priest or deacon.  In an emergency situation, the sacrament may be administered by anyone, providing that the person pours water on the candidate's head while saying: "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit".

Amen, amen, I say to you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. (John 3:5)