Are you interested in becoming Catholic? We have a great process to prepare adults to become Catholic (known as RCIA) that balances theology (head), spirituality (heart), and practicalities (Why do Catholics do… ?). Our RCIA process is underway, BUT IT IS NOT TOO LATE. Join us this Monday at 7 PM in the Gathering Space meeting room. (down the hall from the restrooms in the church). For more information of if you cannot make this meeting, please contact Jen Mayer email 410.647.4892

Adult Confirmation

Are you an adult Catholic who never celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation? Confirmation of Adults is celebrated at the Cathedral several times each year. If you are interested in preparing for this sacrament, please contact Jen Mayer email 410.647.4892 for more information about the preparation process.

Preparing for Your Child's Baptism

How do I arrange for my child's baptism?

The steps involved include:

Calling Jen Mayer who will take information about you and your family and your goals for baptism

Attending the Baptismal Preparation Class if you have not attended it in the past 2 years or attended the class at another parish

Selecting Godparents and providing documentation that they are eligible to serve

Arranging a date for the baptism.

What are the Baptismal Preparation Classes and when are they held?

Baptismal preparation classes provide parents with information on the meaning of this sacrament and the obligations associated with it. They also allow parents to reflect on their own spiritual journey, what it means to take on the role or primary teacher of the faith to their child, and how the church can assist them in that endeavor.

Baptism Classes are typcially held on various evenings at 7:00 PM in the church library. You need only attend one session. Typically the classes finish before 9 PM. If your schedule does not permit you to attend one of these sessions, please contact Jen Mayer, as we can offer sessions at other times if needed. You must pre-register for the class of your choice.

The next sessions will be

October 8, 2008 - 7 PM Library

November 16, 2008 - 10 AM Youth Ministry Room

December 10, 2008 - 7 PM Library

We recommend attending the class before the birth of your child if possible, as you will be more rested and alert.

What are the requirements for Godparents?

Canon Law allows for two (2) Godparents of Record - One female and one male.

Catholics serving as Godparents must:

Be mature enough to undertake this responsibility.

Have received the three sacraments of initiation, namely Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.

Be at least 16 years old (or have the pastors permission).

Know the fundamentals of the faith and be a practicing Catholic who goes to Mass on Sunday.

Be canonically free to carry out the office.

Not be parents of the child.

A baptized, practicing Christian of another denomination can serve in place of one of the Catholic Godparents, provided there is a Catholic Godparents.

Being a Godparent is not just an honor given to a good friend or relative. Being a Godparent implies a real appreciation and practice of the faith, as well as a sense of responsibility toward the person being baptized. Therefore, one should not ask a relative to be a Godparent simply because he or she is a relative.

It is the policy of St. John's that each Catholic Godparent provide a certification of eligibility. This verification can be obtained from his or her home parish.

When are Baptisms Scheduled?

Baptisms are scheduled at various masses and in ceremonies outside of mass on Sunday afternoons. Generally speaking, baptisms are scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month at 1:30 pm. On the other weekends of the month (outside of the Lent, Advent, and Christmas Seasons), baptisms may be scheduled at mass. Typically baptisms at mass are scheduled at the Saturday 5:15 PM, Sunday Noon, and Sunday 5:15 PM masses. If you have a specific date in mind or are a regular attendee at one of the other masses, please contact Jen Mayer.

Can I have my child baptized at St. Johns if I am not a member of this parish?

Although it is ideal to have your child baptized at your home parish, we understand that there may be circumstances in which it would be more convenient for a relative if the baptism were here at St. John's. We ask that you go through the baptismal preparation process at your home church and get a letter from them giving our parish permission to perform the baptism.

Adult Sacramental Preparation

Interested in Becoming Catholic?