Sacraments for Children
Want to have your child baptized?
Celebrating the Baptism of a child is a very special time in a family’s life! There is much joy and anticipation. The Church celebrates with you for this important sacrament.Parents who have been registered in the parish for at least 6 months should call the parish office 522-6202 to schedule an appointment at least 3 months before the date you would like to have your child baptized. Or you may email reception1001@qwestoffice.net to schedule an appointment, or if you have any addition questions.
Attending Baptism Preparation
Parents are required to attend a Baptism preparation. This session, required by Church law, provides catechetical instruction and prepares everyone for their role in the development of the faith of the child, as well as practical information on the actual Baptism ceremony. Godparents are required by our parish to attend these sessions. If they should live out of town, their local parish preparation is acceptable. If you are going to be a godparent elsewhere and need to attend, you are welcome to these sessions.
Choosing the Godparents
Most people select a godmother and godfather, although the Church says that one is sufficient. When choosing godparents, please remember that if only one godparent is chosen, he or she must be a practicing Catholic, in full communion with the Church. If two godparents are chosen, one must be a baptized, practicing Catholic. The other godparent must be baptized, but in any Christian faith that baptizes in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In the case of two godparents, one must be male and the other female. The Church does not permit more than two godparents; all others present at the Baptism will be considered Christian witnesses.
Celebration of Baptism
Baptisms generally take place during Mass on the third Sunday of every month. We do not celebrate Sunday Baptisms during Lent.
Baptism Certificate
The certificate will be given to the parents at the Baptism. If for some reason it is not yet available, it will be sent to you in the mail. Please note that the mother’s maiden name is on the certificate whether she is or is not married.
Donations
Generally families offer a donation for Baptisms. This donation, however, is in no way required. Families should feel comfortable with any amount donated.
Children Preparing to Receive the Sacrament of Penance (Sacrament of Reconciliation or First Confession)
Children in our First Communion program usually celebrate this sacrament in the third grade. This sacrament is usually celebrated during the parish Advent penance service. For more information, please contact Sr. Nancy at the parish office (522-6202) or email mnancyfmm@hotmail.com.
Children Preparing to Receive the Sacrament of First Communion
This sacrament is received in the third grade, after receiving the sacrament of Penance. Children must be in their third year of Religious Education in order to prepare for and receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion. For more information, please contact Sr. Nancy at the parish office (522-6202) or email mnancyfmm@hotmail.com.
