St. Matthew Catholic Church at 25 Wilkins Rd., Winder, GA 30680 US - Baptism - St. Matthew Catholic Church Policy
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Baptism - St. Matthew Catholic Church Policy
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Policy for the Sacrament of Baptism at
St. Matthew Catholic Church
This policy has been developed in accordance with the Archdiocese of Atlanta and the policy for the administration of the Sacrament of Baptism.
When parents request a Baptism for a child, they are asking that their child become a member of the Catholic faith community. Parents also promise to raise the child in the practice of the Catholic faith, with the Godparents and the whole community as a support in the reaching. It is imperative that the parents and Godparents understand what this sacrament requires of them in the life and formation of the child as a member of the Catholic Church.
- Parents requesting Baptism for their child must be registered and attending St. Matthew for a minimum of six months prior to the Baptism. The birth certificate must be supplied with the data for Baptism Register Form to the office.
- Attendance at Mass is verified by the reception of envelopes at Mass. There is no minimum amount for the weekly contribution; the Sacrament of Baptism is not secured by a specific dollar (value) donation. If the parishioner prefers that their donation in support of the church remain anonymous, the family names on an empty envelope attest to their attendance and participation in the life of the church.
- Godparents, sponsors, also must be registered and regularly attending the Mass at their Catholic Church. If the Godparents do not attend St. Matthew, then they are required to present a letter attesting to their suitability as a Godparent. This is standard form letter and is easily obtained from ones own parish. St. Matthew must receive this sponsor letter at least two weeks prior to the date of the baptism requested by the parents.
- Parents and Godparents must attend a Baptism Class. If the Godparent is not registered at St. Matthew Church, and not attending class, they must take the class in their home parish. A letter or form will be issued to the attendee attesting to their participation in said Baptism Class. St. Matthew must also receive this form at least two weeks prior to the date of the baptism.
There is NO FEE for the Sacrament of Baptism. Parents are expected to be sure that the Priest or Deacon performing the ceremony is given a stipend in appreciation. Usually this is about $35 and an envelope is given to the parents as a reminder for this gesture.
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