Baptism
The sacrament of Baptism is celebrated every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in the Church. Parents should call the Rectory to arrange a brief interview with a deacon or priest three months prior to the birth of their child. At the end of the meeting, the parents will select a date for their child’s baptism, and receive further information regarding the parish’s required one-night baptism preparation class.
Parents have an obligation to choose faithful godparents for their children. Questions abound concerning the choice of godparents. While the priests and deacons of the parish are always available to answer any such questions, the following information may be beneficial in helping parents fulfill this important task.
The role of a godparent is to help the baptized child to lead a Christian life in keeping with baptism he or she has received and to fulfill faithfully the obligations inherent in it. Church law dictates that there is to be one godfather or one godmother or one of each.
To be permitted to take on the function of a godparent a person must:
Have completed the sixteenth year of age
Be a Catholic who has been confirmed and has already received the most holy sacrament of the Eucharist and who leads a life of faith in keeping with the function to be taken on;
Not be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared;
Not be the father or mother of the one to be baptized.
A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community, e.g. an Episcopalian or Lutheran, may participate together with a Catholic godparent and then only as a witness of the baptism.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can an unbaptized person, i.e. a non-Christian, be a godparent?
No. Because the sponsor or Christian witness renews the promises made at their own baptism, an unbaptized person cannot be a godparent.
Can there be a proxy for the godparent?
Yes. Proxies for the godparents are acceptable when the sponsors cannot be physically present on the day of the baptism. The name of the designated sponsor is entered in the register. The name of the proxy is entered under the name of the sponsor with the remark “proxy.”
Can the godparents be changed at a later date?
No. Although other changes can be authorized for the baptismal register, this one is not permitted in the Diocese of Rockville Centre.
Marriage
Couples must make arrangements in person at least six months in advance. No date for a wedding will be set by phone. Arrangements can be made only after all consultations are complete. Set your date with the church before you contract with a caterer.
Our Ministry to Engaged Couples includes:
Your initial interview with a priest or deacon
Participation in FOCCUS and Pre-Cana
Preparing your wedding liturgy with a choice of appropriate music
Readings and Prayers and the arranging of your rehearsal
Reconciliation
Come and experience God's mercy!
The sacrament of Reconciliation is offered as follows:
In addition, during the Seasons of Advent and Lent two Penance Services are offered, one geared towards families with young children, and one open to all.
Anointing of the Sick
Please contact the rectory to request the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. A communal celebration of the sacrament is offered once a month. Please call the Rectory for more information.
Adults for Sacraments
Adults who wish to be prepared for Baptism, Confirmation, and/or Eucharist are asked to contact the Office of Faith Formation. Phone number: (516) 541-1712, ext. 242.
