BAPTISM PREPARATION INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES:

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1.    REGISTER IN THE PARISH:   Parents of the child to be baptized must be registered and active, contributing members of St. Robert Bellarmine Parish for at least three (3) months prior to initiating the process for baptism.  An active member is one who becomes involved by favoring the parish with their prayers, regular mass attendance and active participation in parish activities, and shares their talents and financial assistance according to their means.  If you are a registered member of another parish and are choosing to celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism at St. Robert Bellarmine, you must obtain a letter from your parish stating that you are an active registered member, and your Pastor grants permission for Fr. Groner to conduct the baptism at St. Robert Bellarmine.

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If you are not already registered at St. Robert Bellarmine, you may do so by coming to the parish office in the Fellowship Hall and filling out a Registration For Membership form.

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2.    CONTACT THE PARISH OFFICE:  The parent(s) of the child should contact the Parish office at 573-336-3662 or by submitting the form below to register for a baptism preparation class with Fr. Groner.  Classes are normally scheduled for the second Thursday of each month at 3:00p.m.

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3.    PREPARATION SESSION:  To ensure that parents are aware of the meaning of baptism in their children's life and the commitments they are making to raise their children in their religion, they are required to participate in a baptism class.  Godparents, while not required to participate, are welcome.  Parents are required to register in advance, and may participate in this class before their baby is born.  Prior participation in a baptismal class may be considered as fulfilling this requirement.

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4.    SELECTING GODPARENTS:   The Godparent or sponsor for your child has a role to assist you in passing on  the faith.  Therefore, parents should select someone who will take the role seriously and be a good role model for the child.  A godparent must be at least sixteen years old, already confirmed, and a practicing Catholic.  A sponsor can be a non-catholic, practicing Christian.  Normally, one male and one female are selected.

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5.     SCHEDULING THE BAPTISM:   After completion of the preparation session, the baptism may be scheduled with Fr. Groner, by calling the rectory at 573-336-3662 or by submitting the form below.  Baptism may be celebrated during Mass or, if desired, after Mass; however, due to Fr. John's committment to celebrate the spanish mass in Cuba on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month, baptisms may NOT be scheduled after Mass on these two Sundays.  Baptisms are conducted as a communal celebration when possible.