"Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission..." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213)
Infant Baptism
Baptism is the first Sacrament of Christian Initiation. Baptism of infants is normally performed during the celebration of the Eucharist during a Saturday or Sunday mass. For a child to be baptized at Our Lady of Perpetual Church, his/her parents must be registered and practicing Catholics.
Parents are expected to participate in Baptismal Preparation Class. Expectant parents and sponsors must attend a class before the Baptism of the child. Please call 304-623-2334 to register for the class. If preferred, one of the Parish clergy may visit your home by mutually agreed appointment. For the home visit, parents and godparents should be present.
Parents are asked to choose someone to serve as godparent or sponsor for their child. Since the sponsor’s role is to assist parents in passing on the faith in which the child is being baptized, parents should choose someone who will take the role seriously and will be a good role model for the child. Church law sets minimum requirements: at least 16 years old, already confirmed, and a practicing Catholic.
Adult Baptism
See Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Copy of Baptismal Certificate
For a copy of your Baptismal Certificate from the parish, please contact the rectory at 304-623-2334.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." --Matthew 28:19-20