Baptism at St. Patrick Church

Baptism is the gateway to all the other sacraments and, at least in intention, necessary for salvation.  Through this Sacrament of Initiation we are reborn as children of God, united to Christ by an indelible character and incorporated into the Church.  (Canon 849)

 

Children should be baptized within the first weeks after birth. (Canon 867) 

 

There must be a well-founded hope that children baptized will be brought up in the Catholic faith.  (Canon 868)

Pre-Baptism Preparation

Parish Contact

If you are planning to have your child baptized in the Church, please contact the parish office for an information packet. Please complete the forms in the packet and return them to the Office. You will be individually contacted for an appointment/interview.  All schedules and registrations will be discussed at that time.
 
Orientation Session

Both parents are expected to attend one catechetical session prior to the Baptism. This requirement may be waived if you have attended a session recently.  These catechetical sessions are currently held on a Tuesday evening and last approximately one and one-half hours from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.  Registration for the class occurs with/during the interview with the Pastoral Staff member.  Parents are encouraged to attend this session prior to the birth of the child.  Godparents are also welcome to attend.

 

Marriages not recognized by the Church

Parents whose marriage is not recognized by the Church will need to discuss this with the deacon or priest staff before the child is baptized.  Children are baptized because of the faith of their parents.  Our intent is to assist the parents and child in practicing their faith as fully as possible.

The Sacrament of Baptism

Dates and Time for Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is ordinarily celebrated on seven or eight weekends during the year, either during the 4:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday, the 11:30 Mass on Sunday, or at a separate celebration at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday.

 

Special requests for dates and times other than those specified will be considered on an individual basis.

 

The parish priest or deacon will usually officiate at the Baptism.  However, visiting clergy, who are close friends or relatives, are welcome to celebrate the Baptism.  Please discuss this with the deacon or priest to arrange for a mutually agreed upon date and time for the Baptism.

Sponsors and Christian Witnesses

 

The Church asks that anyone to be baptized be given a sponsor who, together with the parents, helps the baptized to live a Christian life and fulfill the obligations of Baptism. (Canon 872)

Church Law provides some basic requirements:

  • Sponsor(s) / godparent(s) - one is sufficient - must be at least sixteen years of age and confirmed
  • Sponsor(s) / godparent(s) should be practicing Catholics in good standing and models of Christian living
  • Two Sponsors / godparents (and only two) are permitted, but they must be one of each sex and at least one must be Catholic
  • Parents may not serve as sponsor(s) / godparent(s)
  • A non-Catholic practicing Christian may serve as an official witness to the Baptism along with one Catholic sponsor.

General Information

Offering and Stewardship

An offering to St. Patrick Parish may be made at the time of Baptism.

 

Godparent Information - how to choose godparents, as well as advice to pass on to godparents.

Patron Satints Index -  a comprehensive index of Saints and what they are specifically asked to intercede for.

Frequently Asked Questions about the role of Godparents in Baptism

 

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