Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” (CCC 1213)*
PLEASE NOTE: Any person who wishes to have their child baptized must be a registered member of our parish, attending Mass at St. Andrew Church on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation as recorded by the use of the Offertory Envelope for at least 6 months before beginning the preparation process.
Baptism for Infants and Children
Baptisms for infants and children 6 years of age and younger are celebrated Sundays at 12:30pm. Parents wishing to have a child baptized must:
• Schedule a meeting with Gregory Allen, Pastoral Associate, by calling (843) 448-5930 ext 116.
• Attend one of the monthly Baptismal Preparation Sessions
Godparent Requirements
Parents may choose up to two Godparents for the baptism (one must be male and one must be female). God parents must meet the following requirements:
• A Godparent must be 16 years of age or older
• A Godparents must have received Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist
• A Godparent must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church
A validly baptized, non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian Witness provided at least one qualified Catholic Godparent has also been selected.
Godparent Certificate
Each godparent for the baptism must complete a Godparent Certification Form provided to the parents during the Baptismal interview. Upon completion, the form must be submitted to the parish office of St. Andrew Church at least two weeks before the baptism. On this form, the proposed godparent will verify that he or she meets the requirements of Canon Law to qualify as sponsor for Baptism. Baptismal and other sacramental certificates are not needed from the godparent.
Christian Witness Certification
If a Christian Witness will be present at the baptism, then he or she must complete a Christian Witness Certification form provided to the parents during the Baptismal Interview. The form must be returned to the parish office of St. Andrew Church at least two weeks before the baptism.
Baptism for Adults
Unbaptized adults prepare for the sacrament of Baptism by participating in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).
RCIA is a process of discernment and education for unbaptized adults who wish to become Catholic. Those baptized in another Christian faith may also participate in this process to come into full communion with the Catholic church.
Unbaptized adults who complete RCIA receive the sacrament of Baptism at the Easter Vigil Mass. For more information on the RCIA Program, please call the parish office.
*Excerpt from the Catechism of the Catholic Church