Mom of a 19 Month Old Son Wants to Baptize My Son

Hi Jackie -

Reverend Roy Frye, of Service Ministries, does home weddings, baptisms and any religious service for people who are not active in any particular congregation. He married my husband and I 4 years ago and he just baptized myself and my two daughters in a private ceremony. He is a great minister and would be more than happy to do a home baptism. His number is:###-###-####.

Good Luck!
B. P.

Jackie,
In our baptism ceremony (Episcopal), the congregation affirms their support of the (new) member and the family by promising to help raise the child in a supportive, Christian environment.

To me, baptism isn't only about dedicating this child to God - but very much about community support. And mercy, when my son was 19mo, I needed support!

I'd start searching for a church - I know our first son wasn't baptised until just before he was 2yrs (literally just days before his birthday!)....because I took the time to find a church home for us. Doesn't happen overnight sometimes.

I do know our prayer book offers a shortened baptism "ceremony" to be used in the event of a chid born still or needing an 'emergency' baptism. I also know of folks who have dedicated their children in this manner - without our pastor present.

Good luck finding a church home. You'll enjoy the support offered when God brings you to a good home.

J.

Hi Jackie,
I belong to Catholic church in Bolingbrook that is not pushy and a bit more liberal. You would need to attend a baptism class (aprx.1 hour watching a video) and become a member of the church. But like Regina mentioned, that does not mean you need to attend weekly. If you would like more info on the church let me know.
Good luck!
M.

I think it's a tough situation. On one hand, baptism is about your son being presented to God and the church "community". But on the other hand, you are saying that you don't want to join a church. Honestly, you just can't have one without the other. I don't think Catholics do a home ceremony--so that would be out of the question. I'd just join a church. You don't have to attend regularly, but it is a nice support system to have should you need it one day. Plus, it's mandatory in the Catholic faith to attend a "baptism class" before the ceremony. They some places are really relaxed about the class, others aren't.

I found a really liberal, laid back church with a nice congregation of people. I feel really comfortable there. It meets our needs and I don't think it's "pushy". I go when I want. My husband is not Catholic, so I go alone or bring my 4 yr. old daughter with me.

Good luck with whatever happens!

I agree with Regina. I was raised Quaker, my ex-husband was Catholic. We could never agree as to where to raise our kids. We went off/on to different churches and couldn't find anywhere he wanted to raise our children. My children (21 and 23) now have NO faith! My daughter is getting married in May by a JP and has no interest in ever being a part of a church. Ironically I have remarried a man who does go to church (not Quaker but still Christian), have personally become more firm in my beliefs. My stepchildren and 3rd child all join us in church, are baptised and the older ones have continued going to church after they left our home (we have 8 kids, 5 over 18yrs). One of my biggest regrets is not insisting on raising my bio kids with SOME faith! IMO it is not enough for you to just "believe" or to teach your children, be a part of a community, it is good for you and good for them.

Dear Jackie,

Home Baptisms are really nice. It is so intimate to have it in your home. Do you know someone who has a relative who is a priest? If not, I know a priest downtown Chicago that might be interested. I did that for my second daughter. We had the baptism in the living room. About 20 people came. Had a professtional photographer there. I had a caterer come in and do a brunch. It was lovely. Let me know if I can be of assistance.

K. Herrebout
www.luckydayboutique.com