300 N. Sheppard St. Richmond, VA 23221
Main Office: (804) 254-8810
Emergency Number Outside of Regular Office Hours: (804) 254-0887
BAPTISM
In Baptism, we participate in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a result of this “immersion” in the Lord’s saving work (the term “baptism” means “immersion”), original sin is forgiven and grace is received. We thereby become members of the Body of Christ, the Church, and share in the life of God.
photo by Colin Sheppard
Baptism of Children
Baptism Liturgies are held approximately once a month at Saint Benedict Church. These are joint baptisms with 1-4 children being baptized at a time and either Father John David or a Deacon will preside. Those requesting Baptism for their child should be registered/active parishioners at Saint Benedict Catholic Church.
Parents who present their children for Baptism promise to rear them in the Catholic faith. This means attending Mass on Sundays and Holydays of Obligation, and ensuring that the children receive religious education and the other sacraments. Parents are expected to attend a class offered by the parish in preparation for Baptism.
At least one godparent is required for Baptism, although two may be chosen (in which case it must be a man and a woman, although they need not be husband and wife). Godparents must be fully initiated and practicing Catholics, since they share the responsibility of rearing the children in the faith. This means that godparents must have received Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion; that they practice the faith; and, that if married, they be married in the Catholic Church. Each eligible godparent needs to submit a Godparent Attestation Form.
An application for baptism and Godparent Attestation form must be completed and submitted no later than two weeks prior to baptism.
For more information, dates available and to obtain forms, contact Ida B. O’Leary, the Administrative Manager (ioleary@saintbenedictparish.org).
Baptism of Older Children and Adults
Children above the age of reason (seven) are considered adults for the purpose of Baptism. According to Church law, those above age seven who seek Baptism—whether they be children or adults—must also receive the sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist within the same celebration.
These three Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion) are normally celebrated at Easter (March / April). The parish provides a period of instruction so that these sacraments can be received properly (see “Becoming Catholic”).
For more information, contact Ben Fleser, Director of Evangelization and Catechesis (bfleser@saintbenedictparish.org).