THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM

BAPTISM OF INFANTS AND SMALL CHILDREN
Through the sacred rituals of the Sacraments, we experience spiritual realities and their deep meaning and important value in our lives. Due to the necessary health restrictions, celebration of some sacraments was delayed, but then continued with a bit of creative effort.
 
The primary and preferred celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism is on a Sunday, in a group gathering of the faithful, or at least of the families, relatives, friends, and neighbors, with their active participation welcoming the newly baptized children into the Community of the Church. In this spirit, prior to COVID-19, The Catholic Community of Pleasanton celebrated the baptism of infants and small children in groups of up to twelve children once a month, with their families and guests.
 
In an abundance of caution during the health restrictions we have celebrated all baptisms individually with only the child's family, godparents and few guests present. Now conditions are improving, many people have been vaccinated, and restrictions are easing. We are excited that CCOP is beginning to celebrate group baptisms again, but in small groups.
 
Small groups will include only a few children with family, godparents, and their guests. All in attendance must wear a face covering and observe social distance rules. These will be once a month or as needed on Sunday afternoon at 2:00 PM and will generally include music with a cantor and pianist.
 
CCOP will not have large group baptisms until the pandemic is long behind us. We will celebrate individual baptisms only as needed. In addition, our previous two session in-person Baptism Preparation Class for Parents is now a single session class on Zoom. It will continue this way as long as necessary. If you are interested in planning baptism for your child or joining the parent session, please contact Deacon Joe Gourley at jgourley@catholicsofpleasanton.org or (925) 474-2778.
BAPTISM OF OLDER CHILDREN, TEENS & ADULTS
Baptism is the sacrament that imprints the likeness of Christ on the human person; it’s the first step of Christian Initiation. From baptism is born a kingdom of new persons who share in a new quality of life: life of the risen Christ.

Children (Ages 7 - 17): For unbaptized children and teens ages 7-17 years old, please contact Kathy Works at kworks@catholicsofpleasanton.org.

Adults (Ages 18 & Up): Unbaptized Adults should refer to the Rite Of Christian Initiation Of Adults (RCIA) page.