Baptism Seminar Team

“Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit….” (Matthew 28:19)

What is Baptism?

The Sacrament of Baptism is one of the seven sacraments given to us by Christ. It is the first sacrament to be received. It is through God’s love to us that we share in His eternal life. It makes us members of Christ’s body, the Church.

The day of Baptism is a day to celebrate! For the child, it is a day the Lord has made, a day to new life and grace, and a day of sharing in the life of Jesus. For the parents, godparents, and family, it is a day of love and joy. For the Christian community, it is a day of promise and faith, and a day to celebrate our Christian heritage.

Pre-Baptismal Requirements

The Sacrament of Baptism is a welcoming sacrament! As such, St. Charles Parish welcomes all parents, whether registered or non-registered, to have their child baptized. Parents who regularly attend at St. Charles are encouraged to attend. Those who attend at other church must have the permission of the pastor of the Church that they attend regularly.

NOTE:  Prior to attending the Baptism Seminar, an interview with a priest or deacon MUST be scheduled and completed.  Call the Parish Office to make an appointment at 619-423-0242.

Baptism Seminar

Parents, godparents or sponsors of the child to be baptized are required to attend the pre-baptism seminar before scheduling the Baptism. The seminar will provide parents, godparents, or sponsors the opportunity to renew and share their faith with others. (Ref. Canon Law #851)

Baptism seminars are held the 1st Sunday of every other month at the Parish hall from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm. Check-in time is between 1:30 pm – 2:00 pm. (SEE CURRENT SCHEDULE BELOW)

The seminar is an opportunity for the parents to become aware of their responsibility and commitment to transmit the Catholic faith to their child.

Roles of the parents:

  • Are responsible for initiating their children into the sacramental life.

  • Serve as models for their children by being committed Christians.

  • Have the primary responsibility for the religious education of their children.

  • Worship regularly with their families.

  • Nurture the child they brought to baptism in his/her faith.

  • Are asked to determine their child’s readiness for other sacraments.

  • Are asked to take time with their child to talk about Jesus to read him/her Bible stories, and to pray together as a family.

Roles of the godparents:

Accepts a lifetime commitment to help the child grow in faith.
Should be reasonably informed on the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Is asked to help the child grow in the faith.

Day of Baptism

The time and date for Baptism will be given at the Baptism Seminar. If the scheduled date of the Baptism is missed, the parents must call the Parish Office to re-schedule. Baptisms are celebrated at set times each month only. The Sacrament of Baptism will not be conferred if not pre-arranged.

A Baptismal Godparent or Sponsor must be at least 16 years of age and must have received the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation. In addition, he/she must be of good moral character, living a life of faith. A baptized person who is NOT Catholic may be admitted as a witness to the Baptism. One godparent or sponsor, male or female, is sufficient, but there may be two, one of each sex. (Ref. Canon Law #873-874, “Sponsors”)

IMPORTANT REMINDERS:

* Contact the the Parish Office at (619) 423-0242 to schedule an interview with a Clergy and to pay the Baptism Fee of $100 per child PRIOR to attending the Baptism Seminar.

** Babysitting is NOT available during the Baptism Seminar.

Baptism Seminar Schedule for 2024