Baptism
Becoming a Child of God through Water and the Holy Spirit.
What is Baptism?
Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation into the Catholic Church. Through water and the Holy Spirit, we are freed from sin, become children of God, and are welcomed into the Church.
Baptize baby or let them decide when they're older?
The Church baptizes children because Baptism is a gift of God's grace, not something earned through personal merit.
Just as parents care for their children's health and education, they also offer them the gift of faith.
Through Baptism, children are welcomed into the family of God and begin their journey of faith, which will be accompanied and strengthened over time.
What to Expect
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Parents and godparents attend preparation.
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A meeting with the priest and instruction must be scheduled.
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Children over age 7 must complete Faith Formation before Baptism.
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Adults seeking Baptism participate in RCIA.
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Baptism can be scheduled after meeting the requirements below.
Requirements
For infants (under 7 years):
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Parents and godparents receive baptismal preparation.
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One parent or guardian must consent.
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There must be a genuine intention to raise the child Catholic.
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A meeting with the priest and class attendance are required.
For children (7 and older):
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Children must attend CCD / Faith Formation before receiving Baptism.
For adults:
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Adults seeking Baptism should participate in the RCIA program.
Sponsors / Godparents
The godparents accompany the baptized person in their growth in faith and must meet the following requirements:
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Must be at least 16 years old.
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Must be a Catholic who has the sacraments of initiation (baptism, first communion, and confirmation) and attends Mass regularly and practices the faith.
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Cannot be the parent of the child being baptized.
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Can be a single godparent (male or female) — or one of each.
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If married, the godparent must be married in the Catholic Church (or have their marriage convalidated).
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If you choose 2 godparents. At least one must fulfill all the requirements.
Registration
