Question about baptism

[alwayssearching]

Hi. I am not Catholic, but my husband is.
My oldest son was baptized Catholic, but my youngest son was baptized in the Lutheran church.
We have recently found a Catholic church we like and plan to start attending.
My question is this.
Can both my boys do the sacraments? Can they both take First Communion and both be confirmed? Does the Catholic church recognize a baptism that isn’t done in their church? Can my youngest be Catholic, even though he wasn’t baptized there?
Thanks for any answers.

 

[urquhart]

Your youngest son’s Lutheran baptism is valid. Both boys will need to enroll in Christian education classes to prepare for first Holy Communion and confirmation. Call the parish office and they will fill you in on the details.

 

[puzzleannie]

what previous poster said is correct as far as it goes. younger son, if below the age of reason (about 7) can be entered on the parish records as Catholic, the Catholic (or one who is converting) parent making the profession of faith on his behalf. He then enters religious education class at the appropriate ages for first communion and confirmation.

If the Lutheran child is over age 7 he is considered an adult for the purposes of the sacraments of initiation, and will be catechized and receive sacraments according to the RCIA, for previously baptized Christians. For all practical purposes, that means both children will probably be enrolled in the same class if they are close in age. Talk to your pastor and RE director, they will go into it more full. Bottom line, your parish pastoral staff would like to get to know your family and make sure all your needs and concerns are being addressed, and you fully understand what is going on.