The Sacrament of Baptism

Baptism is the gateway to the rest of the sacraments of the Church, and as such, we want to ensure that families are adequately disposed to introduce their child(ren) to the sacramental life.

We encourage families to start the process at least six (2) months before the desired date for baptism. To learn more, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Erica in the parish office.

Canon Law, the universal law of the Church requires that a person over the age of 7 must, at their baptism, also receive First Communion and Confirmation. In other words, they will be fully initiated into the life of the Church in one service. For these sacraments to be meaningful, a great deal of preparation is required. To begin preparation please contact Maribel in the parish office.

From the Unites States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Email Erica or contact the parish office to arrange for Baptism for children UNDER the age of 7.

Email Maribel or contact the parish office to arrange for Baptism for children OVER the age of 7.

To inquire as an adult on becoming Catholic. Visit On Becoming Catholic for detailed information and contact the parish office at 813 645-1714.

The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus. Before starting his public ministry, Jesus submitted himself to the baptism given by John the Baptist. The waters did not purify him; he cleansed the waters. . . . Jesus did not need to be baptized because he was totally faithful to the will of his Father and free from sin. However, he wanted to show his solidarity with human beings in order to reconcile them to the Father. By commanding his disciples to baptize all nations, he established the means by which people would die to sin – Original and actual – and begin to live a new life with God.

In Baptism, the Holy Spirit moves us to answer Christ’s call to holiness. In Baptism, we are asked to walk by the light of Christ and to trust in his wisdom. We are invited to submit our hearts to Christ with ever deeper love.

~from the United States Catholic Catechism for Adults | en español

© [2025] — Saint Anne Catholic Church.