I know that if we were to move we would probably have to take our baptismal records in and the certificate I received from the Church when I became Catholic but how about the kids when they attend college away from home- since they are technically staying members of our home church till they settle would the church at school expect "proof' of their Catholicism?
kimdyuma wrote: would the church at school expect "proof' of their Catholicism?
No. The only time "proof" is necessary is if they are to receive a sacrament, such as Matrimony or Confirmation. Otherwise, it is assumed that anyone who presents him or herself as a Catholic is entitled to do so.
If they are to be married or confirmed, they need only name the church and approximate date of their baptism. The church will handle the rest.
To explain further, the parish of Baptism keeps record of all subsequent sacraments. When someone is confirmed, it is reported to and recorded at the church of baptism. When someone is married in the Church, it is reported to and recorded at the church of baptism. And when someone dies, it is reported to and recorded at the church of baptism. That parish keeps all records of "first" sacraments, as well as a recording of death. And any time a sacrament is received for the first time, it is reported back to that parish so it can be recorded on the sacramental records.
I have lived in the same parish for 35 years, but when I die, the recording will be made at the parish where I was baptized 56 years ago.
____________________ Understanding is the reward of faith. Therefore seek not to understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand. - Augustine
