BAPTISM
Welcome Parents and Parents-to-be to the baptism program at Holy Trinity Church! We look forward to meeting you as you begin the first stage of your child's initiation into the Catholic Christian community. First Eucharist, Reconciliation and Confirmation complete our initiation. These guidelines and information are designed to help the process go as smoothly as possible:
Classes are offered to our parishioners 5 five times a year: January, April, July, October & December. Dates are announced in the parish bulletin and on the website. If you are not formaly registered at Holy Trinity fill out a registration form and participate in weekend Masses and practice Stewardship of time, talent, and treasure. Call the parish office, 497-4200 to sign up for a class.
Parents are expected to attend one class facilitated by the parish Baptism Preparation Team. Bring the original birth certificate issued by the state to the class and come prepared to fill out a baptism record form that includes godparent name(s). Godparents are welcome but not required to attend, however, a letter from their parish stating that they are practicing their faith is required. You may print a copy of the baptism record by clicking on this link Baptism Record (this document is in PDF format).
The baptism will be scheduled once you complete baptism preparation and the birth certificate and letters have been received at the baptism class or at the parish office.
Baptismal Name - The child should have a baptismal name, i.e., the name of a saint who will mentor the child's Christian life.
Godparents - One Catholic godparent is required and may eirther be male or female; at least 16 years old and be a fully initiated practicing Catholic, i.e., baptized, receives the Eucharist and has been confirmed. If you choose two godparents one must be male and one female. Ideally, they will both be Catholic, however, one may be non-Catholic that was baptized in a Christian faith. Proof of baptism is required. A parent cannot be the godparent of the child to be baptized. If godparents cannot be present for the ceremony, please consider your option of a proxy.
Age for Baptism - Baptism is a sacrament for persons of all ages. If your child is 6 years of age or older, he/she can participate more actively in the preparation for the scaraments through the faith formation program. Please call Lorenda Nerison at 497-4145 to begin this process.
State Birth Certificate - Your child's baptism certificate is a legal document. It is necessary that the birth certificate be issued by the state where your child was born. San Antonio birth certificates are issued at the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District Office during the week. Certificates issued by the hospital are mementos and cannot be used.
Baptism Scheduling - The primary time to celebrate a baptism is at Mass during one of the following weekends:
- November 25 & 26, 2006 -- Feast of Christ the King
- May 12 & 13, 2007 -- Mother's Day
Private baptism is an option and may be arranged by calling the parish office, 497-4200.
NO BAPTISMS ARE SCHEDULED DURING THE SEASONS OF ADVENT OR LENT.
