Baptism
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Welcome to God's Family
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The sacrament of baptism ushers us into the divine life, cleanses us from sin, and initiates us as members of the Christian community. It is the foundation for sacramental life. We are delighted to help you or your chiildren become baptized.
ABOUT BAPTISM AT ST. GABRIEL
Infant baptisms (ages 0 - 6 years) are scheduled on Saturday mornings in English, and on Sunday afternoons in Spanish.
For children ages 7 years and older and adults, see "older child baptism" and "adult baptism" below - near the bottom of the page.
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Baptism for Children Ages 0-6
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1. Parents attend Baptism Class (for first child)
If this is your first child, the Catholic Church requires that you attend a baptism class before your baby is baptized. Only one parent is required to attend, but both are welcome and encouraged to come. If you have already attended a baptism class for your first child, here or at a previous parish, then you do not need to attend.
Please register for a baptism class at least a month in advance of your desired baptism date through the form below.
Class in English:
Held 1st or 2nd Saturday of each month
10:00 am in the chapel
See dates in form below
Class in Spanish:
Held 3rd or 4th Saturday of each month
10:00 am in church building - Fellowship Hall
See dates in form below
Before you attend the class
We encourage you to watch the “Reborn” baptism videos on the FORMED.org website. Create your free FORMED.org login here - a gift from our parish (choose St. Gabriel at 3016 Providence Road Charlotte).
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2. Choose Godparents (please read before asking someone to be a godparent)
Godparents are the spiritual role model, an example of the Christian life, and an official representative of the Body of Christ, the Church. They are to be a source of guidance, support, and inspiration to this child on his or her faith journey and, when apprpriate, help the parents in the Catholic formation of this child.
QUALIFICATIONS
At least one godparent must be a faithful, practicing, confirmed and mature Catholic, who is in good standing with the Church.
REQUIRED LETTER
This godparent must obtain a signed letter of goodstanding (or eligibility certificate) from his/her pastor stating eligibility to serve as a godparent. In addition: if Godparent(s) are married, they have been married in accordance with the requirements of the Church. If they are not married, they are not co-habitating.
For godparents who are St. Gabriel ParishionersIf you are a St. Gabriel parishioner serving as a godparent for a baptism IN OUR PARISH, complete the online form below to request a letter of eligibility.
Godparent Eligibility Form for St. Gabriel ParishionersFor godparents who are members of other parishes
If you are a member of another Catholic church, request a letter or certificate of eligibility from your parish (original form is not required) and email to [email protected]
OR
Print and complete our Godparent/Sponsor Form below. Obtain your pastor's signature and send to [email protected].
Godparent Eligibility form - printable
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3. Complete Baptism Information Form and Schedule Baptism
Please complete the form linked below as soon as possible. It contains information needed to schedule the baptism, prepare a baptism certificate for you, and record the baptism in the church records.
Children's baptisms (ages 0 - 6 years) are scheduled on Saturday mornings in English, and on Sunday afternoons in Spanish.
If more than one child will be baptized, please complete a separate form for each child.
Complete Baptism Information Form here
Formulario de información para bautizar en Español
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4. Stipend for Priest or Deacon
It is customary to thank the priest or deacon by providing a stipend to them at the baptism. A typical baptism stipend is $25, but may be more if you wish. Any amount is gratefully accepted and appreciated by our clergy. Checks should be made payable directly to the clergy member who officiates. Thank you!
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Older Child Baptism
Children over the age of 7 must attend 2 years of preparation classes prior to the baptism.
Children must be baptized prior to receiving First Reconciliation and First Communion.
Learn more here
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Adult Baptism
The Catholic Church traditionally recognizes all baptisms performed by other Christian denominations.
Unbaptized adults who wish to receive the sacrament of baptism at St. Gabriel Catholic Church are invited to prepare through our RCIA process.
learn more here
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Highly recommended - watch on Formed.org
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Have baptism questions?
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