Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation by which we are freed from all sin and are endowed with the gift of divine life, are made members of the Church, and are called to holiness and mission. Baptism is birth into the new life in Christ. In accordance with the Lord’s will, it is necessary for salvation, as is the Church, herself, which we enter by Baptism.

Holy 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 of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water and in the word.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church).

Parents and godparents of children to be baptized are required to participate in Baptismal preparation sessions.  This can be done even before the birth of the child.  
 
Baptisms at Our Lady of the Rosary Church are usually held after the 11:00am Mass.  Please contact the office at (504) 488-2659 for more information.

Please review the Baptism policies for the Archdiocese of New Orleans and Our Lady of the Rosary Parish.

Most Catholics were born and baptized as infants into the Catholic Christian community.  They grew up in Catholic families and came to share in the full sacramental life of the Church through the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.  
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is for:

• Any adult not yet baptized who wishes to become a Catholic.  

• Any adult baptized in another Christian church who wishes to become Catholic.  

• Any baptized Catholic who, after a time of inactivity in the Church, wishes to rededicate him or herself as a Catholic.  

• Any adult baptized Catholic, who has not yet celebrated the Sacraments of Eucharist and/or Confirmation and wishes to do so.