Congratulations on your decision to seek BAPTISM for this child!
Baptism is about BELONGING!
Through the power of the Holy Spirit poured into us at BAPTISM - we become the sons and daughters of God. We forever BELONG to God!
Through the grace of BAPTISM - we are brought into the Church, the same Church that Jesus Christ started over 2000 years ago. No matter where we go throughout the world, we BELONG to God’s universal family through the Catholic Church.
At Church of the Ascension, we want to help you discover for your family a place of BELONGING.
If you have any questions at any point in this process, please contact Janet Jones at 757-495-1886 x423 or [email protected]
The first biggest decision is making the commitment to have your child baptized and to bring them up in our Catholic faith. The second biggest decision is to select a godparent. Their role, as godparent, is to help you guide, support and mentor your child as he/she grows in our Catholic faith.
Watch this video as Father Mike Schmitz explains the role of godparents.
Here are the established norms and expectations in choosing a godparent:
After you have completed the Belongings course and I have the response to the question, I will email you the Baptism application and we will decide on a date.
Beginning in May, 2023, Baptisms will be celebrated during the Sunday Mass on the 2nd Sunday of the month. We will only celebrate Baptisms at the Mass when Father Daniel is the celebrant. So the choice of Mass will vary.
As you fill out the application, it asks for the "Catholic Parish of the Parents". If you are registered at another parish you will need to obtain permission from that parish to have your child baptized at Church of the Ascension.
If you are not regsitered anywhere, we invite you to register at Ascension. To register as a parishioner, you can pick up a form at the registration desk, at the Parish Office, or visit our Welcome page to print a registration form and sign up for parish email.
Janet Jones at 757-495-1886 x423 or [email protected]
Celebrate the Baptism!
On the day of the Baptism, you will need to bring a separate white garment, such as a bib, stole, or hat that will be placed on the child during the celebration.
You will also need to bring a candle- a pillar or taper. This is lit during the celebration. We have Baptismal candles available and can provide one on the day of the Baptism.
FOR BAPTISM AT CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION, registration as a member is optional and not required. However, part of having your child baptized is BELONGING to a parish where you child and your family can live out your faith.
FOR BAPTISM AT ANOTHER PARISH: Parents/Godparents, if the parish at which the child to be baptized requires a Letter of Good Standing from the pastor, it is necessary that you attend Baptism Preparation and be an active, registered member of Church of the Ascension.
To register as a parishioner at Church of the Ascension, you can pick up a form at the registration desk, at the Parish Office, or visit our Welcome page to print a registration form and sign up for parish email.
All are welcome!