Infant Baptism
Saint Luke Catholic Church is delighted to welcome the youngest members of your family into the Body of Christ through the Sacrament of Baptism!
At Saint Luke, we ask that at least one parent (both, if possible) attend a baptism preparation session prior to having their child baptized or if you have not previously baptized a child in the Diocese of Arlington. The Baptism Preparation Class will be facilitated by one of our priests and is held in the Rectory. Parents must register to attend the class. To register, contact Judy Werner at 703.356.1255 or by email at parishoffice@saintlukemclean.org.
This session is designed to help you explore what being a Catholic Christian parent will mean for you and your family, choosing the godparents, what your child gains by being baptized and what you need to know when the big day comes!
After attending the class or if a class is not needed, we can schedule the baptism. We celebrate baptisms on Sundays at 12:30pm, after the 11:00 Mass and it would be just your child/children being baptized. It is not a group event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to do to have my child baptized?
At Saint Luke, we ask that at least one parent (both, if possible) attend an hour and a half session prior to having their child baptized. The Baptism Preparation Class will be facilitated by one of our priests and will contact you to arrange a time and date for the class. This session is designed to help you explore what being a Catholic Christian parent will mean for you and your family, what your child gains by being baptized and what you need to know when the big day comes! Additionally, we ask that families become registered members of the church before the baptism. Parents must also select at least one qualified individual to serve as a Godparent.
Who can be a Godparent?
A Godparent assists a child’s parents in caring for the spiritual well-being and growth of that child for the rest of his or her life. As it is an official position in the Catholic Church, bound by a Sacrament of the Church, at least one Godparent must be a practicing Catholic 16 years of age or older who has received the Sacrament of Confirmation and marriage, if applicable. This Godparent needs to request a Certificate of Eligibility from his or her home parish to be submitted to Saint Luke before the day of baptism. Click here to read the requirements of a godparent.
Does baptism cost me anything
There is no fee to have your child baptized. However, it is customary to make a free-will offering to the priest. These offerings range widely, depending on what is within the family’s means to give.
Is it possible to have the baptism celebrated at another Church but do the preparation here?
Of course! The other parish will require a Letter of Permission from our Pastor to baptize the child at their church. Please contact the parish office to obtain the Letter. Also, check with the other parish to be sure you have satisfied their requirements.
When can we have our baptism?
At Saint Luke, we celebrate Baptisms after the 11:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays. The Parish Office will work with you to schedule a date that is best for you and your family.