BAPTISM OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN

 "Since parents have conferred life on their children, they must be acknowledged as the first and foremost educators of their children." (Decree on Religious Education, Second Vatican Council).  Eligibility for celebrating sacraments at St. Francis of Assisi Parish hinges on parental involvement in a  catechetical process preceding each sacrament.


In presenting their child for baptism, parents are asked to spend time reflecting on the value of sacraments in general, on baptism in particular, on their role as parents, and on the significance of the Catholic Christian Community in their lives.


REQUIREMENTS:  Both parents are to attend a parish baptismal preparation class.  During class we explore the meaning of faith and the sacraments, with a special focus on baptism.  We distribute baptismal arrangement forms, and answer questions regarding procedures.  the forms will be filled out and collected during this meeting.


Parents must be be registered in the parish.  They should practice their Catholic faith and worship weekly with the parish community.  they should recommit themselves to the gospel of Jesus and give a good example to their children.


Those desiring baptism at St. Francis of Assisi Parish who are not registered members, need a letter of permission from the pastor of the church in which they are currently registered.  the letter should state the membership and participation.  If the parents were married outside the Catholic Church, they must speak with a priest before plans for the baptism can be finalized.



For more information, please contact Maggie Connor Spitale in the parish office.

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GODPARENT QUALIFICATION:

In reflecting on whom to choose for godparents, remember that this is not only  a ceremonial role on the day of baptism, but a serious life-long commitment to support the parents in bringing up the child as a Catholic Christian.

  • The role of a sponsor/godparent is to help the baptized lead a Christian life in harmony with baptism and to fulfill faithfully, the obligations with (Canon 872).
  • Only one male or one female sponsor or one of each sex is to be employed (Canon 873).  A sponsor must have completed the Sacrament of Eucharist; and who lives a life of harmony with the faith and the role to be taken.  He/She may be the father or the mother of the baptized (Canon 874).
  • One of the sponsors may be a baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesiastic community.  He/She may serve as a Christian Witness to the baptism together with a Catholic sponsor (Canon 874).