Baptism
 
 
The Christian community in this parish is very happy to welcome children into God’s family through the Sacrament of Baptism.
 
 
 
 
Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation which also include the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. In baptism we receive the new life of grace in Christ. Confirmation strengthens the baptismal commitment, and regular celebration of the Eucharist is nourishment for our Christian journey.
 
 
 
 
In response to our baptism we commit ourselves in the Sacrament of Marriage or the Sacrament of Holy Orders. These Sacraments of commitment invite us to renew our dedication to serve God and others each day.
 
 
 
 
We celebrate God’s merciful love in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the healing power of Christ in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
 
 
 
 
The following are commonly asked questions:
 
 
 
 
Who can be baptized at Holy Cross Parish?
Any adult person who desires the fullness of faith in Christ may be baptized - adults participate in a process of preparation marked by the Rites of Christian Initiation. The children of parishioners can also be baptized. A preparation session is offered for parents celebrating the baptism of their first child. In exceptional cases, baptism of non-parishioners may be celebrated with the permission of the proper Catholic pastor.
 
 
 
 
How does one become a parishioner?
Parishioners are those Catholics who live in Georgetown and who claim Holy Cross as their parish home. Residents outside of Georgetown may also consider Holy Cross their parish because they regularly attend Sunday Eucharist here. Registration in the parish is always helpful. A registration form may be obtained at the main entrance of the church, and upon completion, can be returned to the parish office.
 
 
 
 
Who can we choose to be Godparents?
The choice of godparents is a most important one. Godparents stand as witnesses of the faith and support the parents in their role as “first teachers”. A godparent is one who is a baptized, confirmed, and practicing Catholic who is 16 years of age or older. Other baptized Christians may join the Catholic godparent(s) and serve as “Christian witness(es)” to the baptism. A non- baptized person may not serve as a sponsor at baptism. Parents may not serve as godparents. Grandparents and other relatives, who fulfill the requirements above, may be chosen.
 
 
 
 
When are baptisms celebrated at Holy Cross?
Generally, we celebrate baptism on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month - except during the Season of Lent. It is best to contact the parish office at least two months prior to the desired date of baptism.