1802 33rd Ave. SW Calgary, AB
Office: (403) 244-0198
Fax: (403) 245-5065
office@parishofstmstp.com

The Covenant – to strive for justice, to seek and serve Christ in all persons, to proclaim by work and example the good news in Christ and to participate in the fellowship of the whole Christian Church.*

The Sacrament of Baptism marks the beginning of a person’s membership in the Church and the first formal steps of their Christian walk. It is usually offered at one of the main worship services in order that the congregation may be present to pray for the newly baptized and to receive them into the fold.
Here are a few things you may want to know about baptisms at St. Mark & St. Philip’s:

  Who may be baptized at St. Mark & St. Philip’s?

Infants whose parents have a serious intention of bringing them up in the Christian faith may be baptized at St. Mark & St. Philip’s. Similarly, adults who intend to take their place in the Christian community may be baptized.
People from out of town - both infants and adults - may be baptized at St. Mark & St. Philip’s provided they complete the preparation required by their own church where they live.

When are baptisms offered?

The celebration of baptism is planned to coincide with one of the feast days of the church (the Baptism of Jesus, The Transfiguration, Easter, Pentecost, Holy Cross Day, All Saints’ Day). However, depending on the numbers, other appropriate occasions are sometimes sought in order that there may be no more than three or four baptisms at one time.

Those being baptized (or, in the case of infants, their parents) are expected to participate in a time of preparation so they may consider the vows they will be making and do so with integrity. Preparation is guided by the clergy usually in the form of one-to-one visits.

Traditionally sponsors (godparents) are adults willing to encourage and support a child in his or her Christian upbringing. This means they are active Christians whose life and witness can serve as a role model for the baptized child. Despite some enduring traditions pertaining to the proper number and gender of godparents, no set rules exist about these choices.

There is no cost associated with the sacrament of baptism. As each baptized person grows in faith, they are expected to take their part along with other church members in financially supporting the church and its various ministries.

If you would like to enquire further about baptism, please contact the clergy of the parish.