Baptism

Guidelines for Baptism

Through the grace of Baptism, we are welcomed as sons and daughters of God the Father in Christ. We are delighted to introduce the youngest members of your family to the Body of Christ through the Sacrament of Baptism!

Infant Baptism:
Baptisms for infants typically take place once a month on Saturday. Please refer to the schedule to the left for specific dates. If your child has reached the age of reason (typically around 6 or 7 years old) and is under 18, please contact Mr. Benjamin Paczak, Director of Religious Education, at 703-525-1300 for more information. If you are an adult seeking Baptism, please contact Fr. Nicholas Barnes at 703-525-1300 or inquire about the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA).

Baptism Registration

To register your child for Baptism, please complete the Baptism Registration form.  A staff member will contact you upon receipt of your submission.

Baptism Registration Form

Important: Only registered parishioners of the Cathedral of St. Thomas More may schedule a baptism.

Baptism Preparation Class

The Baptism Preparation Class is offered monthly. Once your registration form is received, the office will contact you to register for the class. Both parents are required to attend at least three months prior to the baby’s due date. This class is designed to help you understand the role of a Catholic Christian parent, the significance of Baptism for your child, and what to expect on the day of the sacrament. Godparents are encouraged to attend but are not required.

Godparent (Sponsor) Information

A Godparent plays a vital role in guiding a child’s spiritual growth throughout their life.

Eligibility Requirements for a Godparent (Sponsor):

• Must be at least 16 years old (exceptions can be made by the pastor).
• Must be a practicing Catholic who has received the Sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation.
• If married, must be married in the Catholic Church. If single, must not be cohabiting.
• Sponsors must submit a letter of eligibility from their parish confirming they meet these requirements. Cathedral of St. Thomas More parishioners should contact the parish office for this letter.

Additional Considerations

• Only one Catholic sponsor is required, but if you choose two, one must be male and one female.
• Parents may not serve as their child’s sponsor. Grandparents or other family members may take on this role.
• A baptized, practicing non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness, but not as a sponsor.
• A Catholic (or former Catholic) who is not practicing the faith cannot serve as a Christian witness or sponsor.
• If a sponsor cannot attend the baptism in person, a proxy may stand in for them. The proxy must be Catholic, meet the same requirements, and provide a letter of eligibility.

For any questions about the suitability of a sponsor, please contact one of our priests as soon as possible.