Guidelines for Baptism
Congratulations on the upcoming baptism of your child. We are delighted that you have chosen our parish to celebrate this sacred sacrament and share in this important milestone of your child’s spiritual life. Holy Baptism marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith, and we are honored to welcome your family as you prepare for this blessed occasion.
The Armenian Apostolic Church also encourages parents to bring their child to the church on the fortieth day after birth, following the example of our Lord Jesus Christ, who was presented at the Temple by His parents (Luke 2:22). This beautiful tradition allows the Church to offer prayers for the child, ask for God’s continued protection, and formally welcome the newest member into the faith community.
Scheduling the Baptism
To arrange a baptism, please contact the church office at (508) 852-2414 as early as possible. We recommend having an alternate date available should your preferred date already be reserved. Whenever possible, we will work to accommodate your requested schedule.
Preparing for the Sacrament
All baptisms are celebrated according to the traditions and canons of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
A Baptism Request Form will be provided by the church office and should be completed and returned promptly. Please make sure that all information, particularly the spelling of names, is accurate before submitting the form.
The Godfather should preferably be a member of the Armenian Apostolic Church. If this is not possible, a baptized and confirmed Christian may serve in this role. If the Godfather belongs to a Protestant denomination, confirmation through Holy Muron (Holy Chrism) may be required before the baptism. The Parish Priest will meet with the Godfather before the ceremony to explain the meaning of the sacrament and his responsibilities.
Although a Godmother is not required in the Armenian Apostolic Church, she may assist during the ceremony by helping care for the child, including holding, dressing, and undressing the infant when needed.
Church fees and honorariums are based on the Schedule of Church Fees and Customary Donations, which is available through the church office. The same schedule applies if additional clergy are invited to participate in the service.
Items to Bring
Infant Baptism
One or two large white towels
A white outfit for the child to wear after the baptism
A baptismal cross and chain for the newly baptized (optional but recommended)
Adult Baptism
Prior instruction and preparation with the officiating priest
One or two large white towels
A baptismal cross and chain (optional but recommended)
Photography and Videography
Photographers and videographers are welcome to document the baptism. We ask that they conduct themselves respectfully and remember that they are working within the House of God. They should avoid blocking the priest or interfering with any part of the liturgical service.
To ensure the ceremony proceeds smoothly, we strongly encourage photographers and videographers to speak with the Pastor before the service so they understand any guidelines or limitations. Following the baptism, photographs taken in front of the Holy Altar should be completed within 30 minutes.
According to Armenian Church tradition, the child should not be kissed until after the bath given three days following the baptism. Because Holy Muron (Holy Chrism) is used during the sacrament, the bath water should be respectfully poured onto the ground or around plants and flowers, rather than into a sink, bathtub, or other waste system.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations as you prepare to bring your child into the Body of Christ through Holy Baptism. We pray that this sacred day will be a joyful and blessed occasion for your entire family.
Please contact the church office to reserve your baptism date and complete the required Baptism Request Form.
Scriptural Readings for Baptism
Scripture Readings During the Baptism Service
Gospel of St. Matthew 28:16–20
Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, though some doubted. Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Gospel of St. John 3:1–8
Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know You are a teacher who has come from God.” Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the Kingdom of God unless they are born from above.” Nicodemus asked how a person could be born again after growing old. Jesus replied, “No one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. Do not be surprised that I said, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
Additional Scripture Readings About Baptism
Gospel of St. Matthew 3:13–17
Gospel of St. Mark 1:4–8
Gospel of St. Mark 1:35–40
Epistle of St. Paul to the Romans 6:1–11
Epistle of St. Paul to the Colossians 2:8–15
First General Epistle of St. Peter 3:13–22
