SACRAMENTS - BAPTISM
Baptism marks the entry of the believer into the Christian community. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and joined with Christ, sharing in His divinity and destined for eternal life. In the words of St. Paul, "We were buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so too may we live a new life." (Romans 6:4)
Baptism of Infants
Baptisms take place on Saturdays and at specific Sunday Masses. Please contact the Parish Office (email: baptisms@gs-cc.org) about available dates and times for your child's Baptism.
Baptism Preparation Class
Parents must attend a Baptism Preparation class prior to having their child baptized at Good Shepherd. (Minimum one parent must attend. Both parents and godparents are welcome and encouraged to attend.) This one-time, one-hour class covers topics such as: the importance of parents as the first formers of their child's faith, and the Rite of Baptism, in addition to answering any questions you may have.
You must register prior to attending the class, so please contact the Parish Office (email: baptisms@gs-cc.org) for upcoming class dates and times.
Godparents
The following are the requirements for godparents:
- both must be at least 16 years of age;
- at least one must be a practicing Catholic. If using a proxy (in the event one or both godparents cannot be present at the Baptism), at least one proxy must be Catholic.
- you can also have a non-Catholic (officially called a Christian Witness) who must also be at least 16 years of age.
- You can have two men or two women, but even if they are both Catholic, only one will be the godparent listed in the sacramental registry. In that case, please designate which one should be listed.
Baptism Information Sheet
Please complete the baptism form and return to the Parish Office ("Attn: Baptisms") or email a copy of the completed form to baptisms@gs-cc.org
Questions?
If you have any questions about the scheduling of your child's Baptism, please contact the Parish Office, baptisms@gs-cc.org.
If you have any questions about the Sacrament of Baptism, requirements for godparents, or the Baptism Preparation class, please contact Joan Sheppard, Director of Faith Formation, at 703-780-4055 or joan@gs-cc.org.
Baptism of Older Children (age 7 or older) and Adults
Please contact Joan Sheppard, Director of Faith Formation, at 703-780-4055 or joan@gs-cc.org