Rationale for the policy

The Catholic Church nourishes the lives of our members through the seven sacraments. These special sacred rituals are by their nature public, community events, In the Sacrament of Baptism, the Church celebrates God's presence in the Parish community, especially in the welcoming of new members. The celebration of Eucharist often serves to underscore our belief in Christ's presence during this special occasion. Christ blesses the community with new members, and our actions make visible God's real presence.

A living Catholic Parish plays important roles at the major life events of its parishioners. The birth of a child is certainly such an event. The Sacrament of Baptism is best envisioned as a process, which begins long before the day the water gets poured, and lasts far beyond the ceremony. In traditional Catholic teaching, the norm for baptism is that of someone who professes knowledge of Catholic and Christian teaching, and who promises to live them, freely doing so. A child under the age of reason (7 years, according to church norms) obviously cannot do this. The child is therefore dependent upon the faith of the parents, godparents, and of the parish community itself to ensure that s/he will be raised according to Catholic faith.

In light of this, it makes most sense if baptisms are a regular part of our Sunday worship, and not private, after-mass rituals. It is the entire community that welcomes and claims the child in the name of Christ along with immediate family & the clergy. It is the responsibility of the community to assure that those being baptized at our parish will be raised in the faith, and encouraged to live an active Christian, Catholic Lifestyle.

Our parish seeks to deepen the integrity and meaning of baptism in a number of Ways. First, we provide for parents education and preparation for the Baptismal ritual itself. Second, we ask that the parents or guardians of the child clearly express how they will raise their child in the Catholic faith. Third, all of our parish baptisms will normally take place within the context of regular worship. Fourth, our church normally baptizes children of those parents who are members of our parish, or who have strong family ties to the parish. It is in this light that a policy for baptism has been developed.

How does someone arrange for
a baptism at SS. Peter & Paul?

The first step is to personally contact the pastor or associate pastor. You will be sent appropriate materials on the sacrament, which you will be asked to read. Then you will need to meet privately with one of them at a mutually acceptable time. Once this is done, then you may schedule a date for the baptism. Without their prior knowledge & approval, you may not schedule a date for a baptism. You are welcome to check available dates if you wish, but no dates may be held for anyone without the approval of the Pastor or his Associate. Please note that we require at leave 1 month notice before the baptism.

Who may have children baptized
at SS. Peter & Paul?

The following people, (assuming they complete the preparations described above), may have children baptized at SS. Peter & Paul Parish in Alton. It is assumed that at least one of the couple is an actively practicing Catholic.

1. Registered adult parishioners of our Parish;
2. Dependents of registered parishioners (e.g., a college student who lives out of town, an unemployed adult child who lives with their parishioner/parent);
3. For appropriate pastoral reason, a member of another parish, with their local pastor's knowledge and approval. No dates will be secured until such permission is received in writing. Examples of appropriate pastoral reasons include:
   • Family history of active membership at SS Peter & Paul;
   • Family who are currently active parishioners;
   • Having moved here recently, and not having registered yet;
   • Active Catholics who move frequently due to work situation, e.g. military personnel.
4. In all cases, 6 months active, registered attendance at our parish or another Catholic parish is required before a baptism may be scheduled.

When may I have my child baptized?

Normally, baptisms will held once a month, except during Lent. It is recommended that the baptism be celebrated at whatever mass the parents regularly attend.

• 12 Jan., Baptism of the Lord (normally 2nd Sunday of January)
• 9 Feb., Sunday before Ash Wednesday
• 30 March, Easter Sunday (often on or near the second Sunday of April)
• 18 May, Pentecost Sunday
• 8 June, 2nd Sunday
• 13 July, 2nd Sunday
• 10 Aug., 2nd Sunday
• 14 Sept., 2nd Sunday
• 12 Oct., 2nd Sunday
• 9 Nov., 2nd Sunday
• 14 Dec., 3rd Sunday of Advent (usually 2nd Sunday of December)

Since Baptisms are for active, practicing parishioners, there is no required fee for baptism. An appropriate donation would be appreciated for those members of other parishes who, for pastoral reasons, have their child baptized at SS Peter & Paul. All donations go to regular church support.

What if my child's health is in danger?

Please remember that any person, even someone who is not Christian, can baptize in case of an emergency. The Catholic Church recognizes all baptisms using water, done in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. If there is any grave concern of a child's (or a consenting, unbaptized adult's) death, you are strongly encouraged to perform baptism immediately. The person can be welcomed into the church publicly with the appropriate rites at a later time, if this is possible. Remember that Jesus welcomed children where others rejected them.

Goals for future

Team of six parishioners (or three couples) who will do baptismal preparation classes on a regular schedule. It is suggested that this ministry should pertain to the Board of Education, with support from Liturgy committee. as necessary.