Baptism | St. James Parish

Baptisms at St. James Parish

Baptism is a powerful, transformational moment for the entire faith community at which we welcome our newest members, vow to support them, and in so doing reaffirm our own baptismal vows. The Episcopal Church understands that baptism confers full membership in the Church, including participation in Holy Communion. Though baptism is an offering and celebration of the individual, it is supremely an event of the community. There is no such thing as a private baptism; candidates are sponsored by parents and godparents—or in the case of an adult, presented by a beloved friend or family member—and are surrounded and affirmed by the congregation. Accordingly, all baptisms take place during public worship.

Preparing for Baptism:

Those seeking baptism, or parents of the child being baptized, are required to participate in the St. James Baptism Preparation and Rehearsal associated with their baptism. It is held at St. James and godparents are encouraged to attend if they are able in person or attend virtually. St. James Baptism Preparation and Rehearsal occur the Saturday before the date of baptism. We require parents and Godparents read “Preparing for Baptism in The Episcopal Church” by Anne Kitch prior to St. James Baptism Preparation and Rehearsal.

The following is our schedule of upcoming baptism dates:

Baptism of Our Lord: January 9, 2022 (Downtown)
The Great Vigil of Easter: April 3, 2021 (Mt. Lebanon Chapel)
Bishop Visitation: May 2, 2021 (Downtown)
Pentecost: May 23, 2021 (Downtown and Mt. Lebanon Chapel)
Second Sunday in July: July 11, 2021 (Downtown and Mt. Lebanon Chapel)
Sunday after Labor Day: September 12, 2021 (Downtown)
All Saints’ Sunday: November 7, 2021 (Downtown)

If you would like to have a member of your family baptized at St. James Parish, please download and complete THIS FORM and return it to our Parish Office or complete the form HERE online.

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