October 3, 2010 at 10:00 am service - FULL

October 31, 2010 at 9:30 am service

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What preparation is required for baptism?

Prior to the baptism, a member of the clergy will contact you to schedule a meeting to talk about baptism - what it means to you, for your child, answering any questions you might have, etc.  On the Saturday before the baptism there is a rehearsal, followed by a chance to meet with other couples whose babies will be baptised with yours. (Or adults who are seeking baptism for themselves!)  In all of these gatherings, our purpose is to take time to reflect on the meaning of baptism, to develop relationships and a sense of community between those who are involved in the baptism, as well as with the rest of the congregation.

Are Godparents required to attend the prepatory events?

Godparents often want to attend the prepatory events, and we encourage you to invite them. However, since many Godparents are from out of town, we do not require it. In many situations, Godparents do try to at least attend the Saturday date since this is the time in which we run through the logistics of the service, assign seating, and so on.

How should Godparents be selected?

Godparents for adults and older children are asked for their endorsement and support - through prayer and example - of the candidate. Godparents of infants, in addition to support, are asked to take vows on behalf of the candidate. When selecting Godparents, it is important to select people who are able to make these promises with integrity, as they are taking on an important responsibility in the candidate's life. St. Jude's asks that at least one of your Godparents be a baptized Christian.

How many Godparents should a candidate have?

It is entirely appropriate for parents to act as the sole sponsors for their children. It is often meaningful and appropriate to have Godparents, but not necessary. You do not need to have any set number of Godparents. A person can be baptized with only one sponsor. In fact, every candidate is sponsored by the whole assembled congregation who make vows to help support his or her formation as a Christian.

Is there a fee for a baptism?

There is no fee for a baptism at St. Jude's. For those who wish to make a contribution to the ministry of our parish as a sign of thanksgiving and commitment, an envelope is provided and a tax receipt will be issued.

What happens after the baptism?

Baptism is the beginning of a journey of faith. It is a choice to engage that journey of faith within a community of faithful people. If you are having your child baptized, it is an intentional choice to nurture your child's spiritual being, just as we choose to nurture our children's physical, mental, and emotional being.

Worshipping with the community of faith is a foundational aspect of engaging this journey and being faithful to the promises of baptism. We offer a Nursery and Children's Program at our 9:30 Sunday Services. We also have a quieter Wednesday morning mid-week service which may work for families with a more erratic schedule. We are looking for ways of making our worship more accessible for families with busy and irregular schedules and we appreciate any input that you can give us about your needs and hopes from St. Jude's.

Throughout the week, there are numerous ways of connecting with people and growing in faith. There are mission and service opportunities, Bible studies and education programs, specialty groups and social gatherings. Please check with the office for more information.

Where do I get more information?

For any questions about baptism, please call our office.

Phone: 905-844-3972 or E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Click here to download the application form.