Baptism

This post is also available in: Spanish

“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 of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.”

Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213

The Sacrament of Baptism for children under 7 years old* is regularly celebrated every third Saturday of the month in English at 10:30 a.m., and every first Saturday of the month in Spanish at 10:30 a.m.

Here are the 2024 Baptism Class, Paperwork Due Date and Ceremony dates:

Children older than 7 years old will need to register for religious education classes before getting baptized.

I’d like to get my child baptized. Where should I start?

We are delighted that you have chosen to have your child baptized at our parish! Here are your next steps:

  1. Fill out the baptism registration form below.
    • You may also come by the parish office to fill out the registration form or you may fill it out down below.
  2. Bring a copy of the child’s birth certificate to the parish office
    • You may also bring the original and we will be happy to make a copy for you!
  3. Attend a baptism class:all parents and godparents need to attend!
    • We offer Baptism classes every first (English) and third (Spanish) Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at the Parish Office Conference Room (4329 Sano Street). Call or visit the parish office to register.
  4. Submit sponsorship letters for both godparents from their home parishes, confirming that they:
    • are at least 16 years old
    • are Catholics who have been baptized, confirmed, and received the Eucharist
    • are practicing (go to Mass on Sundays)
    • are single or if married must be married in the Catholic Church

After everyone has attended a class and we have all the paperwork, will be happy to schedule a baptism for your child!

Please note that classes and baptisms are subject to change.

Baptism Registration

Click the link down below for the form:

https://queenofapostles.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/29/responses/new


FAQs

Godparents

How should I choose the godparents? Do they have to be members of QofA?

First and foremost, the godparents must satisfy the requirements listed above. Careful thought should be given to the choice of godparents. The godparent will be a spiritual addition to the immediate family of the one to be baptized and also represents the Church. Professing and living their Catholic faith, it is the duty of the godparents to help the parents bring up their child to profess and live that same faith. They do not have to be members at Queen of Apostles.

Dr. Robert J. Matava, Dean of the Christendom College Graduate School in Alexandria, wrote an article for the Arlington Catholic Herald that explains the requirements of a godparent as listed by the Code of Canon Law.

Could I have greater/fewer than 2 godparents? 

There may only be up to 2 godparents: one male and one female. You may, however, also only have one godparent, if you prefer. A non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness, but cannot be a godparent.

What if one of the godparents cannot attend the baptism itself?

Someone can stand in for them as a proxy during the ceremony. Make sure to provide the name to the front office before the day of the baptism.

I am going to be a godparent for a child who will be baptized at another parish, and I was told I need a sponsorship letter. How do I get one?

If you are a registered parishioner, we will be happy to help you with a letter. Call the front desk at 703-354-8711 and we can set up a meeting with a priest for you. Letters are sent out after the meeting.

Baptism Classes

Do I have to attend a class at Queen of Apostles? Or can I go to another parish’s class?

No, you do not have to attend a class with us. However, if you attend elsewhere, we will need a proof of attendance, which can be sent to our parish office.

How can I register for the class at Queen of Apostles? Do I need to bring anything?

Classes in English occur on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. Classes in Spanish occur on the third Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. All classes are held in the Parish Office at 4329 Sano Street.

Call the parish office and tell the front desk you would like to register for an upcoming class. Walk-ins are welcome too! Bring a notebook if you would like to take notes. We also recommend bringing a free-will donation for the instructor.

Can I bring my other children to the class?

Unfortunately, you may not bring your children to the class with you.

Other

*What do I do if my child is older than 7?

If your child is above the age of 7, they will need to register for religious education classes. Contact the parish office for more information or visit the Religious Education tab of our website.

Still have questions? Call the Parish Office at (703) 354-8711 or email general@queenofapostles.org