Welcome

We are delighted that you are interested in your child becoming a member of the Catholic Church. A child is baptized in the faith of the Church, a faith proclaimed for them by you, their parents, and their godparents.  Together with the godparents you represent both the local Church and the whole society of saints and believers.  St. Augustine tells us that: “The whole Church is the mother of all and the mother of each.”  It is important for every child to belong to a faith community. The people of God, namely the Church, and more directly this faith community, have an important role to play as we welcome each new member with their family.  We are eager to make your experience a very special one.

Preparation

Preparation for Baptism may begin before the baby is born.  It usually starts with a phone call to the Parish Office or with an application submitted online. Pertinent information regarding parents and godparents is acquired. Parents must be registered in the parish before their child can be baptised.. Children who are of a catechetical age before being baptized, i.e. have completed Grade 2, may be prepared for all three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion.

The Process

Attend an Information Meeting

Baptism Information meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. the Wednesday evening prior to the Baptism. The dates currently scheduled are:

Please phone ahead to verify the date.

At the meeting, you will learn about the what, why and how of Baptism as it is celebrated at St. Michael's Parish. You will have a chance to explore your own understanding of the sacrament and to ask any questions you might have. You will also receive an information brochure.

If you are unable to attend an Information Meeting, please contact the Parish Office and arrange for a personal appointment.

Choose Godparents for Your Child

Godparents (sponsors), one of whom must be a Catholic in good standing, together with the parents present the child for baptism, profess the Christian faith, and assist the parents in their responsibility to raise the child in the practice of the faith. Church law requires that each child have a godparent/sponsor. One sponsor, male or female, is sufficient; but there may be two: one of each gender. Sponsors must be Confirmed members of the Catholic Church who live lives consistent with the Christian faith and who are mature enough to carry out their responsibility. A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic Christian community may act as a Christian witness.

Complete the Application Form

Complete all the information requested on the application form indicating whether you prefer to celebrate Baptism at Sunday Mass or at the Sunday afternoon Baptism Liturgy.  Sunday Mass baptisms are on a first come, first served basis. Complete the application form and return it and the Baptismal Certificate(s) to the Parish Office at least three weeks before the date of the Baptism. Your application will be reviewed and you will be contacted to arrange the date and time of the ceremony. No date can be finalized until your application has been received and reviewed.

Attend a Preparation Meeting

At this meeting, you will become familiar with the Baptism ceremony and your role in it. There will also be a chance to have further questions answered. The meeting is held the Wednesday evening before the ceremony. You will be given the date, time and location of the meeting when you are contacted after your application has been reviewed.

Celebrate Baptism

Make sure you arrive at the church at least 15 minutes before the Liturgy is scheduled to begin. A pew will be reserved for you. Parents, godparents and children will take part in the opening procession. You will receive a Baptismal Certificate and Candle for your child. There is no charge for baptism, but envelopes are available if you wish to make a donation to the church.

Continue to Journey with St. Michael's Parish

Baptism is the beginning of your child's journey with the faith community. Since you chose Baptism for your child, it is up to you to accompany your child and help them grow in faith. Come to Mass regularly. Sit near the front where your child can see the altar. Use the signs and symbols of Baptism often during your daily life with your child. You have already started preparing for the next step of your child's initiation.

Remember ... Faith is not taught, it's caught!

The Celebration

Baptism may be celebrated at Sunday Mass, except during Lent, if it does not conflict with another special parish event. Our Sunday Mass times are weekly as follows: Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Sunday at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. (Sept. to April)

The Liturgy of Baptism is celebrated on the third Sunday of the month at 12:30 p.m. Please note that sometimes dates may be changed due to other parish activities and that the number of baptisms on each date is limited.

What Next?

If you are new to our faith community, consider walking with us for a while. Come to Mass regularly. Introduce yourself to the staff so you can get to know us and we can get to know you. See if this is the community where you and your child belong. When you are ready, begin the process outlined above.

If you are a long time member of the community or already know you belong here, begin the process right away.

In either case, by considering Baptism for your child, you are exploring your privilege to make a profession of faith on your child's behalf. It's wonderful that you wish to share your faith with your child in this way. If we can help you in any way, please ask. If you have further questions about Baptism, please contact the Parish Office at 519-884-9311 or click here to email the Parish Office.