We who belong to Nativity Parish Faith Community see Baptism as the first Sacramental Stage of Church Membership.  It is therefore, a concern of our parish ministry and a cause for parish celebration.  We try to make every effort to prepare well for each celebration of this sacrament.  

In our preparation, we try to provide an educational dimension, a communal aspect, and an outlook to the future.  The educational dimension takes the form both parents and Godparents watching the Ascension presents videos, then a brief meeting at Nativity to answer any questions and cover what will happen at the ceremony. These sessions are conducted by a member of the staff or by another person(s) especially trained for this ministry.
 
The Baptism itself is celebrated in the midst of the community at a weekend liturgy except in extraordinary circumstances.  The reason for this policy is because the Sacrament should be celebrated by the community to which the new member is joined. Because a good deal of the ceremony is done before the Mass, the baptismal party is asked to be in place at least 20 minutes before the scheduled time for Mass to begin.

A Note To Parents

Presenting your child for Baptism is a promise to faithfully raise your child in the Catholic faith, and to be an example of Christian living for your child.

In order to celebrate your child’s baptism at Nativity parents must:

• Be registered parishioners of Nativity B.V.M. Cathedral in Biloxi.
• Complete and submit Baptism Registration form below.
• Expectant parents are welcome to attend the Baptism Class before the birth of their child if possible.

A Note About Godparents

In order to serve as a Godparent(s), the following requirements must be met:

• Godparents are Catholics in good standing meaning they are registered in a parish, attend Mass regularly, and are giving of their time, talent, and treasure to their parish.
• A Godparent must be a confirmed Catholic and practicing their Catholic faith. If the person is a non-Catholic, they are eligible to be a Christian Witness. A  Catholic who is not practicing his/her faith is NOT eligible to be a Christian Witness.
• Godparents(s) are to be at least 16 years old and have received the sacrament of Confirmation.
• Godparents are encouraged to attend a Baptism Preparation Session, either at Nativity or in their own parish.

• A godparent must have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.
• A non-Catholic, baptized Christian may be chosen as a Christian Witness, as long as one godparent is a practicing Catholic.

To get the process started, please complete the Baptism Registration Form below and check our the Baptismal Resource Page. Once you submit the form, expect to hear from us within a week.