THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

 

For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.

Infant Baptism (Infant -6 years)

In the Rite of Baptism for Children, the Priest or Deacon addresses parents in the following words: “You have asked to have your children baptized. In doing so you are accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring them up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor. Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?”

With these words, the Church entrusts parents with the responsibility of raising their children in the Catholic faith. Parents engaged in adult formation and active in the life and mission of their parish provide a compelling witness to their children.

Baptisms at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish are celebrated during weekend liturgies.

To register for Sacramental Preparation for Baptism please contact the Parish Office at 804-932-4125.

Baptism Godparents:
  • Infant Baptism Godparent Attestation Form (ENGLISH):  Click here to view the Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Form and supporting documents.  This form is effective August 22, 2019.
  • Infant Baptism Godparent Attestation Form (SPANISH):  Click here to view the Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Form and supporting documents.  This form is effective August 22, 2019.
Baptism of Children and Youth (ages 7 and up)

Older children and youth who have not yet been baptized are considered “adults” when it comes to the reception of Sacraments. This is because at about age 7 they are able to distinguish right from wrong and take personal responsibility for their sins; they are also able to make a profession of faith on their own. Granted, they are children and youth and won’t be able to understand the truths of our faith with the depth an adult may be able to understand, but, Sacraments are not just about understanding, they are about faith and about responding to God’s initiative in our lives, and children and youth are capable of these.

Children and youth who seek to become Catholic and receive the Sacraments of Initiation, participate in the Christian formation programs for their age and in additional preparation sessions and ritual celebrations that mark their progress in this journey into full participation in the life of the Church.

For more information please contact the parish office.

Baptism of Adults

Adults who have not been Baptized or who have been baptized in another faith and wish to be received into the Catholic Church participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).

RCIA is a process of conversion and spiritual formation for individuals who are interested in living the Christian life in the Catholic tradition. It is a time of prayer, study, reflection, faith sharing, ongoing discernment and participation in parish life.

To learn more about the RCIA process and be connected with our RCIA team, please contact the parish office at 804-932-4125.

RCIA Godparent Sponsors: