Stewardship of GratitudeCongratulations on the birth of your child!
Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation that leads to full membership in the Church. Our young people’s faith is a seed that must be nurtured by their parents. In the baptismal rite itself, parents are asked if they are prepared to raise their child in the faith; the celebrant reminds them that they are “the first and best teachers in the ways of faith.” Accordingly, our Baptism Preparation Program offers parents an opportunity to reassess their own faith, as well as reviewing their responsibility to educate their children in the faith. The program reviews the history and the theology of the sacrament of Baptism and the procedures for the rite itself.
St Raphael Baptism Window photo by jsGrafx, © 2013 Jeff Signorini
More Information and to Request Baptism
For more information about scheduling a Baptism, contact the Parish Office at (727) 821-7989 or send an email to info@st-raphaels.com
Baptisms at St. Raphael
When are baptisms held?
Baptisms are held on most Sundays at 12:30pm, except during Lent. Other dates may also be blocked out due to Parish events.
Do I need to take a Baptism class?
If this is your first child, or if it has been 5 years or more since your last Baptismal Class, you must attend. See the list below for upcoming Baptism Classes.
Do I need to take a Baptism class?
As long as your child is less than seven years of age, the process and requirements are the same. If your child is seven or older, contact the parish office at (727) 821-7989, to determine the best pathway that leads your child to the Sacrament of Baptism – and the other Sacraments.
How many godparents may (must) I have?
It is only required that there be one godparent, so you must have at least one. It is customary to have two godparents – in this case one must be female and the other male. The Church does not make any provisions for more than two.
Baptism Class Schedule
Baptism Classes are held once a month. Call the Parish Office (821-7989) for information to register for the class. Registration is needed in order to attend class.
2026Baptism Class Dates
February 15, 2026 @ 10:30am
March 2026: None
April 14, 2026 @ 7:00pm
May 17, 2026 @ 10:30am
June 9, 2026 @ 7:00pm
July 19, 2026 @ 10:30am
