Baptism begins our journey of faith.  The Church asks us to baptize as soon as possible after the birth of a child.  Baptism is often celebrated outside of Mass.  Baptism may also be celebrated during Mass.  In fact, it is preferred to celebrate baptisms during Mass especially if both parents are Catholic as we have a larger community present to welcome the new child of God.  Celebrating Baptism during Mass adds only a few minutes to the Mass.  If you are expecting a child, please contact the pastor to register for baptism class [if this is your first child or if it has been more than five years since the baptism of your previous child].  The date of Baptism is to be arranged with the pastor after completion of a Baptism Class [held quarterly at the Family Ministry Room at St. Bernard-Breda.