Is there a dress code for attending Mission San Antonio de Pala?
No, there is no dress code. We welcome you to come as you are.
Do I need to be a registered parishioner with Mission San Antonio de Pala to have a Baptism?
Yes. It is asked that you are a registered parishioner with Mission San Antonio de Pala AT LEAST THREE MONTHS prior to scheduling a baptism. If you are registered at another parish, a signed and sealed letter of permission is required from the parish stating that the family has permission to have the baptism done at Pala Mission.
When are Baptisms held?
Please keep in mind that baptismal dates are ONLY given and scheduled once the family has completed the baptismal packet and ALL requirements are fulfilled. Requirements are due at least TWO WEEKS prior the chosen date. Incomplete/Partial packets will NOT be accepted and will ONLY be accepted once all paperwork is present and completed. Payments will NOT be accepted prior the completion of the packet. We will only accept payments once all of the required documents and packet is complete and present.
What do I need to bring the day of the Baptism?
On the day of the baptism, make sure the child is in ALL WHITE and bring a candle for the primary godparents. If the family is planning on gifting a rosary or bible for the child being baptized, Fr. Gerardo may do a blessing during the baptism.
Does Mission San Antonio de Pala perform private Baptisms?
There are no private baptisms.
Do I have to take a Pre-Baptismal Seminar?
Seminars are MANDATORY for both the parents and primary godparents of the child being Baptized. To be in compliance with the guidelines, pre-baptismal seminars are in-person on the second Saturday of the month. For information regarding Pre-baptismal Seminars, please contact our parish office at (760) 742-3317.
How old does my child have to be, to be eligible for an Infant Baptism?
Children at or under the age of 6 can be baptized as an infant. If the child is 7 years old or older (except in emergency cases) the child is required to participate in a two-year program of preparation to receive all the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation). This program is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC). Please contact the parish administrator to begin the process or for more information.
What if I am an adult and I would like to be Baptized?
Adults are required, except in emergency cases, to participate in a yearlong program of formation culminating in the celebration of full initiation into the Catholic Church at the celebration of the Easter Vigil. This program is called the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). Please contact the parish administrator to begin this process or for more information.
