Holy Baptism
“I will, with God’s help.”
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Baptism is one of the seven sacraments of the Church. In Baptism, we are joined to Christ in his death and resurrection and made members of his body the Church. A period of preparation precedes baptism: for adults, this preparation lasts several weeks; for infants and young children, the class meets at 12:30 pm two Sundays prior to the baptism and lasts approximately 45 minutes. At this class, you will learn all about the sacrament itself, have the opportunity to ask questions about the baptismal liturgy, and learn ways you to incorporate the faith into your family life. Adults are often baptized at the Easter Vigil, a liturgy held on Saturday evening before Easter Sunday.
Baptisms are scheduled on certain Sundays (and other Holy Days during the Church year) which are designated by the Book of Common Prayer and diocesan policy as appropriate for the celebration of Holy Baptism. A schedule of these baptismal dates is
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A baptismal class is held for the candidate (and parents) usually two Sundays prior to the baptismal date. This date may be adjusted from time to time based on holiday schedules. If you cannot attend the class, Father Tripp will be happy to meet with you individually at a time convenient for you. It’s preferable that the class be completed two weeks prior to the baptism.
Adult candidates for baptism (and older youth/teens) require a longer preparation period and this preparation schedule can be discussed with Father Norris. Adult baptisms are especially appropriate for the Easter Vigil (the Saturday before Easter) or at the December Confirmation Mass at the Cathedral in Atlanta (generally the 2nd Sunday afternoon in December).
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Godparents have a very important role at a child’s baptism. They promise to pray for and to encourage their godchild as she/he grows in faith. Further, they commit to helping them understand how to live their life in a Christian way. Godparents also model to their godchild Christian values and help their godchild develop a life of prayer. Therefore, Godparents must be baptized Christians active in a church community, and it’s helpful if they are from a liturgical church so that they have an understanding of the promises they are making. You can have as many Godparents as you’d like. If they are unable to be present for the baptism, we will give you the Godparent certificates for you to send to them.
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Click Here to complete the form that will be needed to schedule a baptism.
“Heavenly Father, we thank you that by water and the Holy Spirit you have bestowed upon these your servants the forgiveness of sin, and have raised them to the new life of grace. Sustain them, O Lord, in your Holy Spirit. Give them an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works. Amen.”