Baptism and Christian Initiation at St. Gabriel
Baptisms take place the first Saturday of the month at 10:30 am
Baptism Preparation Class is every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm for parents and sponsors
The class and registration are required for the parents and sponsors
All paperwork must be completed one month in advance of the desired Baptism date
Newborn to 6 Years Old
Baptism preparation is an important step for families preparing to welcome their little ones into the Church. A required preparation class will guide you through the process, including instruction, paperwork, scheduling, and answering any questions you may have.
- The class is held on the third Monday of each month at 6:30 pm by appointment with the facilitator.
- To be eligible for baptism, you must be a registered parishioner of St. Gabriel for at least three months, or have permission from your previous pastor.
- Baptisms are celebrated on the first Saturday of each month at 10:30 am.
- As part of our baptism preparation process, both parents and the chosen sponsors are required to attend the baptism preparation class. This shared time of learning and reflection helps ensure everyone involved is spiritually and practically prepared to support the child's life journey.
To register for the baptism preparation class, please contact the Parish Office at (770) 461-0492.
Sponsor Form
Sponsors (godparents) are an important part of the baptismal journey, committing to support the child’s faith life. All sponsors must complete a Sponsor Form and have it signed by their own parish pastor. This form affirms that the sponsor is a practicing Catholic, capable of fulfilling their role. The form is available at the Parish Office, or you can download the form HERE.
Please note that in accordance with Canon 874 of the Code of Canon Law, the Church can admit a person to the role of sponsor if:
a) He or she is not less than sixteen years of age
b) Is a Catholic who has been confirmed and has already received the blessed Eucharist and lives a life of faith which benefits the role to be undertaken
c) Is neither the father or mother of the person being baptized
Given the functions and role a sponsor exercises, a non-Catholic Christian can not be admitted as a sponsor; however, he or she can be a witness. A non-Christian cannot serve in the latter capacity, but is welcome to be present at the ceremony.
For Children Ages 7 and Older
Children who have reached the age of reason (typically 7 years old and older) are invited to prepare to receive the sacraments through the Order of Christian Initiation of Children (OCIC), with formation tailored for youth up to age 18.
To register or learn more, please contact the Parish Office at (770) 461-0492.
