BAPTISM PREPARATION OF INFANTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN

We are offering a new approach to Baptismal preparation that will offer individual consideration for each family. When a family is expecting a baby or has a newborn or young child, we ask that you call the parish office and speak to Marti Barnes, our Pastoral Associate. After giving her some preliminary information, a time to meet for the preparation session can be scheduled at everyone’s convenience.

We would hope that both parents would be in attendance. Some families find that scheduling the baptism preparation session is more convenient before the baby is born. It is up to each individual family.

Godparents are also invited to attend if they so choose. For the baptism, there must be at least one godparent. If there are two godparents they must be one male and one female. The godparents must be at least 16 years of age, fully initiated into the Church (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist), and actively practicing their faith. If the parents select a person baptized in another Christian faith tradition, that person would not be recorded as godparent, but as a Christian witness for the child’s baptism.

If you have already attended a baptism preparation class with an older child, here or elsewhere, it will not be necessary to attend a baptism preparation again. You would simply call Marti Barnes and she will gather information from you and schedule the baptism. Father Umberg generally celebrates Baptism on Sundays following the 11:00 am Mass.

Older children, beyond the age of 7 years, would probably be asked to go through the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children). This decision would be made in consultation with the parents, Pastor, Pastoral Associate, and Director of Religious Education. These children would then be baptized, confirmed and receive Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.

If you have any questions about Baptism, or the RCIA, please feel free to call Marti Barnes. She is in the office most Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. You can reach her at 513-941-3661x12 or martibarnes@stjosephnorthbend.org