The parish family of Saint Benedict is excited to help you in bringing your child into the Catholic Faith, We congratulate you and are here to support you in any way we can. Below you will find general information about the Sacrament of Baptism that we hope will be helpful in preparing for the Baptism of your child.

What is Baptism?

Baptism is a beginning. It is the first of three Sacraments of Initiation in which a child is incorporated into Christ, becoming a new creation through water and the Holy Spirit. Baptism is just the beginning of the lifelong journey of faith.

Baptisms at Saint Benedict

Baptism is a communal event and is typically celebrated on weekends during a regularly scheduled Mass, however they can occur outside of Mass. They are normally celebrated in the parish of the infant’s parents by one of their parish priests. Please note that Baptisms are not celebrated during the season of Lent, i.e., from Ash Wednesday until the Easter Vigil.

In ordered to schedule your child’s baptism please contact the parish office at 724-834-9045 or complete the Baptism Request form to schedule your child's baptism. Because preparation may be needed, parents should contact the parish approximately two months prior to their baby’s due date. The parish staff will begin help you plan the Baptism. The date of Baptism should be fixed at least one month in advance of the desired date.

Is there any preparation required?  

First-time parents and typically those who last had a child baptized five or more years ago are expected to participate in infant Baptism preparation sessions. The sessions include discussion about the meaning of Baptism, the signs and symbols used in the Rite of Baptism, and conversation about the responsibilities of parents and godparents in teaching the faith. Both parents are expected to attend

Godparents 

Parents are assisted in their preparation and in raising their child in the faith by godparents. For help in choosing Godparent/s please click here.