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St. Mary's by the Sea Catholic Church celebrates the Sacrament of Baptism for children of registered parishioners on the 3rd Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m. (after the noon Mass). Spanish baptisms are celebrated on the 4th Sunday of each month at 1:30 p.m. This schedule may deviate slightly during special periods of the liturgical year such as Lent. As a rule, we do not schedule private baptisms. In addition, parents and godparents must attend a Baptism Preparation Class. It is held the Saturday before Baptism at 9:00 a.m. in the Family Room.
If your child has already reached the age of reason (7 years old), it is important that he/she know what Baptism is. Such a child would need to participate in one of our parish religion classes (contact the office for further information).
Baptism is the great moment that begins your child’s spiritual journey. It is the way of life that you are seeking for your son or daughter. It is wonderful that you desire your child to share in the sacramental life of the Church. As you make this request for your child, it should also be a reality in your own life. Ask yourself:
¨ Do you actively participate in the sacramental life of the church?
¨ Do you regularly attend Mass?
¨ Do you make use of the sacrament of Reconciliation?
¨ Are you fully initiated into the Church through Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation?
¨ Does the Church recognize your marriage?
The Church is aware that, for whatever the reason, people will make choices in life that lead them in many different directions. We understand that life can get complicated and we do not want to judge, but, we expect that parents lead by example. At the least, one parent of the child must be willing to guarantee that the child will be brought up in the practice of the Catholic Faith. Many times, the birth of a child raises issues about the faith life of the adults. The miracle of birth might inspire you to seek your own Confirmation or have your marriage blessed by the Church. If so, we would be happy to assist you with these issues.
Choosing Godparents:
The role of the godparent is a special honor that has a specific role. Most parents choose a person to be a godparent because he or she is very dear to them. The individual is deeply respected and the parents want their child to be guided and influenced by his or her life. A godparent should be someone who will pray for your child, and who can help you to teach your child to be a good Catholic by word and example.
You are only required to have one godparent for your child's baptism. However, it is customary to have two (one female and one male). One of these godparents must be a practicing Catholic at least 16 years old, who has received Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Since a godparent is meant to be a spiritual guide and support in the Christian faith, those who are not Christian do not actually fulfill the role. Although they may be wonderful and spiritual individuals, persons of faith communities that do not recognize Jesus Christ as God and profess a belief in a Trinitarian God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) are unable to function as godparents.
If either or both of the godparents are unable to attend the Baptism, a proxy may be named to stand in during the ceremony.
Baptismal Name:
The Church does not want your child’s name to be inappropriate for a Christian. It is best if the child’s first or middle name is shared by someone famous for Christian faith and goodness. Choosing a saint’s name gives your child a hero to imitate and a helper in prayer.
Pictures:
Pictures may NOT be taken during the ceremony. We ask you to do nothing that would disturb the atmosphere of prayer during this time. Please ensure that all your family members and guests understand this expectation. The priest is happy to take pictures with the family after the ceremony.
Parish Records:
A Baptism Certificate will be provided for the family, and the baptism will be recorded in the official parish records. Throughout the child’s life, St. Mary’s by the Sea will hold the permanent record of all their sacraments. If you move later and another church becomes your parish, please remember the place of your child’s baptism and the address of the church.
Donation:
$ 75 per child minimum (or whatever you are able to offer in a spirit of gratitude). This donation is usually made by the parents or godparents.
To Arrange for a Baptism (registered, attending parishioners, only):
¨ Go to the Church Office (Monday through Friday, 9 am – 5 pm) to: (1) schedule a date; (2) make your donation to the Church [$75]; and (3) complete a Baptism Information Form (Click here to complete a Baptism Information Form online.)
¨ Attend the Baptismal Preparation Class (parents and godparents). If the godparents live out of town, they may attend a class at another Catholic Church and provide us with a Certificate of Completion before the day of the Baptism.
There is no limit to the number of people you may invite to your child's baptism. You are encouraged to invite relatives and friends to share your joy and welcome your child into our Christian community.
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