Having a Baby?

Welcome new or expecting parents!  We are excited about welcoming your new little one into the Saint Mary’s family, and thrilled to have the opportunity to work with your family as you build a closer relationship to Christ.  This section of our website is designed to give you information you may need as we welcome the newest member of your family.  Our goal is to provide a safe, caring environment for babies and children to enjoy beginning learning about God.  Here are a few frequently asked questions for new parents at Saint Mary’s...

Q: What should I do with my baby on Sunday mornings?
A: All children are welcome at every worship service.  In addition, we have an excellent nursery program, and we encourage you to take advantage of our professional and caring nursery environment.  The Saint Benedict’s Nursery and Playroom is located down the long hallway from Saint Joseph’s Hall – follow the blue signs or ask an usher/greeter if you have any trouble finding the Nursery. 

Q: Who will take care of my child while he or she is in the nursery?
A: We take great pride in the quality of both our nursery staff and facilities, because we understand that providing a safe, pleasant and clean environment is an all-important step in the spiritual development of children. Our nursery is are staffed with trained professionals as well as caring volunteers.  Our nursery workers are CPR certified.  Our volunteers are church members and parents who have a heart for children. 

Q: What do I do with my baby when I arrive in the nursery?
A: When you enter the nursery suite, please sign your child in on the forms provided.  Please leave any essential items (diapers, wipes, bottles, and special instructions) with the nursery worker. 

Q: When is the nursery available?
A: The nursery is open on Sunday mornings during all Masses (from 9:00 AM until about 12:30 PM).

Q: Should I volunteer to help?
A: That would be great! We are always looking for parents who are willing to help out if needed (in the Nursery or teaching Sunday School).  

Q: When should my child be baptized?
A: Baptizing infants and children is traditional in the church, and we would love for you child to be baptized at Saint Mary’s. Many parents choose a convenient date within the first year to have their child baptized.  Holy Baptism at Saint Mary’s is a very special time and takes place in the midst of a public service of worship. Normally, we baptize at the following major feasts: All Saint's Day (November 1) at the 6:00 PM Mass or at the 11:00 AM Mass is November 1 is a Sunday; The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord Jesus Christ (Early January) at the 11:00 AM Mass; The Easter Vigil (Saturday night before Easter Sunday) at the 7:00 PM Mass; The Day of Pentecost (50 days after Easter Sunday) at the 11:00 AM Mass.  

Q: When does my baby go to Sunday school? 
A.  Sunday school begins with children who turn two by July 1.  Classes are formed in September for the year.  Classes meet from 10:00-10:45.