RITES OF BAPTISM AT ST ROBERT CHURCH
We joyfully welcome your family and your child to Saint Robert Parish as you prepare for the Sacrament of Baptism. Baptism is the beginning of your child’s life in Christ and incorporation into the Church, and we are honored to accompany you during this special time.
BAPTISM OF INFANTS UP TO AGE 6
Preparation and Registration
Parents are asked to contact the Parish Office at least two to three months prior to the desired baptism date to allow sufficient time for preparation and to complete the required paperwork. Complete and return the attached Baptism Registration Form application form with the child’s Birth Certificate as these are required prior to the celebration of the sacrament.
Baptism Preparation Class
Parents and godparents are required to attend a one-time Baptism Preparation Class prior to the baptism. Classes are held on the second Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. Please contact the parish office to register. Parents and godparents may also attend a Baptism Preparation Class at another Catholic parish that better accommodates their schedule. A certificate of completion must be submitted to the Parish Office. If a Baptism class has been completed within the past two years, it remains valid and does not need to be repeated.
Godparents and Christian Witnesses
At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic who has received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist, is at least 16 years of age, and is living a life consistent with the Catholic faith. A Permission Letter from the godparent’s pastor is required.
A baptized non-Catholic Christian may participate as a Christian Witness, provided there is at least one qualified Catholic godparent. The Church allows one or two godparents. Only two names (godparents and/or Christian witness) may be recorded on the baptismal certificate and in the parish register. Non-baptized persons may not serve as godparents or Christian witnesses.
Offering
Families are kindly asked to make a minimum donation of $100 prior to Baptism. This donation goes directly to the parish to help support its operating expenses, maintenance, and ministries.
In addition to the parish donation, it is customary to offer a separate stipend to the priest or deacon officiating the Baptism, in gratitude for his ministry. If the parish donation presents a financial hardship, please contact the Parish Office. No child will ever be denied Baptism due to financial difficulty.
Scheduling
Baptisms are celebrated on Saturdays at 11 a.m. or Sundays at 1:30 p.m. Baptisms are not celebrated during the Sacred Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday). In cases of emergency or danger of death, Baptism may be administered at any time. Please contact the parish office to discuss any special circumstances.
Day of Baptism
Please arrive 15 minutes early in the church. If you arrive too late or do not show up, you may be assessed a rescheduling fee. Please notify the office of any rescheduling at least a week prior.
Baptism Candles and Stole (Bib) are provided by the church but are welcome to bring your own.
Time will be allotted after Baptism for photos, please keep in mind that at times there will be events in the church directly after, we ask you for your patience and courtesy. Certificate will be handled to the parents the day of. Please check for accuracy and correctness of names and dates. If corrections are needed it will be mailed out the following week after it being recorded in the Sacramental Register, please make sure your mailing address is current and correct.
For any other inquiries please call the parish office Monday-Friday from 8:AM to 3PM.
BAPTISM FOR SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN (Ages 7–17)
Children must enroll in the parish Religious Education Program (CCD), a two-year preparation program. Baptism is celebrated after the first year, followed by preparation for First Holy Communion during the second year.
Parents are responsible for coordinating and scheduling the Baptism date with the Parish Office.
For enrollment and more information, please contact:
Religious Education Office (CCD)
Phone: (650) 588-0477
Director: Joanne Bartolotti
Office Manager: Leslie Fong
BAPTISM FOR ADULTS (Ages 18 and Older)
Adults seeking Baptism are warmly invited to begin their faith journey through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
For more information, please contact the
OCIA Ministry at (650) 400-4559.
Director: Kimberly Welch
St Robert Parish Office
(650) 589-2800
Fr Arnold Zamora, Pastor
Deacon Michael Smith, Pastoral Associate
Mrs Lisa Gonzalez, Parish Secretary
Mr Ricky Inting, Parish Staff
