Baptism Guidelines and Policies 

The Pastorate of Our Lady congratulates you on your decision to have your child baptized or to pursue baptism yourself.  We are so excited to welcome you to our Pastorate and to guide you in preparation for reception of this most wonderful sacrament.

Infant Baptism 

The Catholic Church has long celebrated the baptism of infants, dating back to the time of the Apostles (Acts 16:15).  This ancient practice does so much more than merely symbolize one’s welcoming as a member of the Church; Catholics believe much more about baptism which we are excited to share with you.

Before you can schedule your baptism, we ask you to sign-up for one of our Baptism Preparation classes.  These classes last about one hour and take place on the first Monday of every month at Our Lady of Sorrows and the third Monday of the month at Our Lady of Perpetual Help at 7pm. If the first or third Monday falls on a holiday, the class will take place on the second Monday. Baptism classes in Spanish are offered on the Second Saturday of the month at Our Lady of Perpetual Help at 7:00 p.m.

Baptisms are celebrated outside of Mass in a private liturgy or during any Sunday Mass (with some restrictions).  Once you have completed Baptism Preparation, we can schedule your child’s baptism at the time of your choice: 

Our Lady of Sorrows: The second Sunday of the month after the 10:30am Mass 

Our Lady of Perpetual Help: The fourth Sunday of the month after the 10am Mass

           Spanish baptisms always take place within the 1:30pm Spanish Mass. 

If you would like to have your child baptized in a private liturgy outside of Mass but are unable to do so at one of the regularly scheduled times, please let us know and we will do our best to find a date that works for everyone.   

Adult Baptism 

Adults wishing to receive the Sacrament of Baptism should contact our Director of Faith Formation, Deacon Tim Mikules ([email protected]) 443-203-1002 ext 7.  He will explain the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), the process by which adults are prepared to receive their Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Communion and Confirmation.  This is a year-long process that begins in the Autumn.  Deacon Tim will give further detail and requirements for adults to be baptized in the Catholic Church. 

Godparents