Baptism

Welcoming New Life into the Church

A baby is baptized in a metal basin by a person in a white robe.

Baptism is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith. Through baptism, we are cleansed from sin and become true children of God, sharing in His divine life.

This sacrament is offered to all who believe and to the children of families of faith. Since the earliest days of the Church, both adults and children have been baptized as the ordinary means of receiving the grace of salvation through participation in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as taught in Romans 6:3–11.

Baptism of Infants and Children

(Under Age 7)

Please register for the preparation class by calling the parish office at (309) 444-3524.

A black and white symbol of a decorative lamp.

Preparation Class: Parents are required to attend a baptism preparation class, typically held at 12:15 PM on the second Sunday of each month in the church. If you have previously attended the class for an older child, it is not necessary to repeat it.

Black and white symbol of a chalice with a decorative top and base.

Scheduling: After attending the preparation class, please contact the parish office to schedule the baptism.

A black decorative bowl or urn with a small sphere on top, on a short base.

Godparents: Each child must have at least one godparent who is a practicing Catholic, at least 16 years old, and has received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. A second godparent may be a baptized Christian of another denomination, serving as a Christian witness.

Stay connected with what’s happening across our parish.

Baptism of Adults and Children
(Age 7 and Older)

For adults and children aged 7 and above, baptism preparation is conducted through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) program. This process involves learning about the teachings of Jesus and His Church, and preparing to receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.

Contact Information

Black and white icon of a church building with a cross on top.

St. Patrick Church Office

(309) 444-3524

Black church icon.

St. Monica Church Office

(309) 694-2061

We are honored to walk with you as you or your child embark on this sacred journey of faith.