Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were buried, therefore, with Him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (Romans 6:3-4).
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons (and daughters) of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission…” (CCC #1213)
The Sacrament of Baptism should be celebrated as soon as possible after birth. For young children (up through age 6), parents are asked to attend preparation which is scheduled throughout the year. Parents should contact the Director of Religious Education at (540) 297-5530 to allow adequate time for the necessary preparation of the parents and the godparents.
Older children, youth, and adults may also receive the Sacrament of Baptism through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). Please contact the Director of Religious Education at (540) 297-5530 for additional information.