Baptism

Baptism, the door to life and to the kingdom of God… is the sacrament by which its recipients are incorporated into the Church and are built up together in the Spirit into a house where God lives, into a holy nation and a royal priesthood.

General Introduction to the Rite of Baptism for Children

We regularly celebrate baptism for infants on the second and fourth Sundays of each month after the noon mass. Adults who have not been baptized should journey through the RCIA process.

Couples expecting their first child or those who have never participated in a pre-Baptism program must do so. In these classes parents will learn the meaning of baptism in the life of a Christian and what their special responsibility will be in raising their children in the faith. We offer this class to new and expecting parents at our parish, or it may be taken at many of our neighboring parishes. A schedule of these classes in the region is available here.

For more information or to schedule a baptism, call the Parish Office at 440-708-0000.

What are the requirements for godparents?

Godparents must be practicing Catholics who have received the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) and must be over the age of 16. If they are married it must a valid, Catholic marriage, meaning that it was witnessed by a priest or deacon. Parents cannot act as godparents for their own children.

Ideally, there should be one godmother and one godfather.

Non-Catholics may take the place of a Godparent by acting as a Christian Witness, but there must be at least one actual Godparent.

Can I request a specific priest or deacon as the presider?

Yes, absolutely. Please inform the Parish Office of which presider you would prefer if you do have a preference.

Can the baptism take place during a Sunday mass?

Baptisms during mass take place at the discretion of the pastor, and are normally reserved for active members of our community while also taking into consideration other liturgical events. We regularly schedule baptisms to take place on Sundays at 1:15pm (just after noon mass ends). Other days or times can be arranged with the presider

Is there a fee for baptism?

No. It is a long standing custom to offer the presider a stipend after the baptism, but you have no obligation or expectation to pay for receiving a sacrament.