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Parents’ decision to have their child baptized by a priest or a parish deacon is an act of true love toward their child. Baptism allows the child to be welcomed into the Church early and grow in the Love and Grace of God. Baptisms are celebrated on the second Sunday and third Saturday of every month at a Rite of Baptism ceremony. Individual Baptisms are discouraged unless there are extenuating circumstances.
A birth certificate is essential to Baptism and should be turned in immediately. To start having your child baptized at St. Theresa’s in Memorial Park, please complete the following form; once you have submitted it, someone will contact you. If you have questions, please contact Kendall Solé at [email protected] or 713-869-3783.
Children who have reached the age of seven and have not been baptized are invited into the process of Christian initiation based on the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), adapted to the age and needs of each child. This process usually takes a full liturgical year because it involves receiving multiple Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, and possibly Confirmation.
The Church requires at least one godparent (sponsor) to be baptized, confirmed, and in good standing with the Catholic Church. In addition, the family may also choose a second godparent of the opposite sex. If this second person is baptized but not Catholic, this sponsor will be a “Christian Witness.”
New parents are asked to attend our Baptism Prep Class held each month on the second Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in Fellowship Hall; godparents are not required to attend, but if they live locally, we welcome them. Baptism Prep is designed to help first-time parents reflect spiritually on being new parents and recognize that Baptism is the beginning of a lifelong commitment. We discuss the theology of the sacrament of baptism, as well as the practical aspects of the ceremony itself. It is a great way to meet other parents in the parish and answer any questions you may have. Parents are encouraged to attend class during pregnancy, but if you’re planning a baptism for a child who is born, you are most welcome to bring your child with you.
BAPTISM PREP FORM
Please click on the link to the Baptism FAQ below for more information about Baptisms or Baptism Prep at St. Theresas.
Although there is no set fee for Baptism, it is customary to make an offering to the Church to help support parish ministries; you may do this online. Or you may give a stipend to the priest or deacon celebrating the sacrament in person on the day of Baptism.