Sacrament of baptism



Baptism of Infants and Young Children

Contact: Heather Heishman - Director of Liturgy


We welcome your child to be baptized at St. Mary's. Whenever we welcome new life, our life as a faith community is enhanced. Parents, godparents, and the community promise to share the joys and challenges of living our Catholic faith.


As a Sacrament of Initiation, Baptism is the first step in our life-long journey of faith. Parents who decide to have their baby baptized are also choosing to share their own faith by the example of their words and actions. Baptism, then, makes visible your commitment and that of the godparents you choose, to the ongoing growth in faith of your child. A faith that is alive and active is "caught" more than it is "taught."


Interested in Baptism for Older Children - Adults? Visit our OCIA Page.

"Baptism is the sacrament that opens the door to all other sacraments and initiates one into the family of God."

-Pope Francis

Baptism Preparation

We hope that this time of preparation and celebration will be an opportunity for you to both reflect on your faith and to renew your commitment to living out your chosen responsibilities. May you understand as addressed to you the words of Christ to His disciples: "Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always...."


Guidelines:


  • In compliance with diocesan policy, parents are expected to participate in two baptismal preparation sessions prior to scheduling their child's baptism.
  • The family of the child to be baptized is to be a registered member of Saint Mary's Parish for at least three months.
  • Baptism initiates a child into the faith community of the Catholic Church. It is celebrated in the midst of the parish community, whose presence witnesses its willingness to support and encourage its newest members and their parents. Therefore, Baptism is celebrated during our weekend Eucharistic Liturgies.
  • The fee for baptismal materials is $30. 
  • Parents will need to call Heather Heishman at the Parish Office (804-740-4044) to register for Baptismal Preparation Sessions.

Baptism Weekends


Baptism Dates:


Schedule your child's baptism at one of our weekend Masses (5:30 p.m. Saturday Evening, 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Sunday Morning) on the following weekends:


  • October 12/13, 2024
  • November 2/3, 2024
  • January 11/12, 2025
  • February 22/23, 2025
  • May 10/11, 2025
  • July 12/13, 2025
  • August 9/10, 2025
  • September 20/21, 2025
  • October 18/19, 2025
  • November 15/16, 2025


Schedule your child's baptism outside of Mass with a Deacon on Saturday morning at either 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. on the following dates:


  • October 12, 2024
  • November 23, 2024
  • January 11, 2025
  • February 22, 2025
  • May 10, 2025
  • August 9, 2025
  • September 20, 2025
  • October 18, 2025
  • November 15, 2025


Registration:


CLICK HERE to download the Registration Form.

Please complete the form and return it to the Parish Office, ATTN: Heather Heishman or email hheishman@stmarysrichmond.org