BAPTISM

“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.”
[Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213]

CONGRATULATIONS!

Congratulations on the birth of your child! We are delighted that you are seeking the gift of Baptism for your son or daughter.

In Baptism, your child becomes a beloved son or daughter of God, is freed from sin, receives the gift of the Holy Spirit, and becomes a member of Christ and His Church. As parents, you have the privilege and responsibility of helping your child grow in the Catholic faith, and our parish is here to support you in that important mission.

We encourage parents to begin preparing for Baptism as early as possible—even before their child is born, if they wish.

PREPARING FOR BAPTISM

Parents requesting Baptism should intend to raise their child in the Catholic faith by teaching them to know and love Jesus Christ and by making Sunday Mass a regular part of family life. If you have been away from the Church for some time, please don’t be afraid to reach out. We would be happy to welcome you back and accompany your family.

At least one godparent is required. Godparents must be practicing Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist and who are able to help your child grow in the Catholic faith. If you are unsure whether someone qualifies, Father Ryan will be happy to discuss it with you before you ask them.

SCHEDULING A BAPTISM

To begin the process:

  • Register in the parish if St. Francis Xavier will be your parish home. (Register online here)
  • Contact Father Ryan to schedule a brief meeting. (frrhealy@diocese-fr.org)
  • Meet with Father Ryan. During this meeting, you’ll complete the baptism paperwork, discuss your child’s Baptism, and choose a date for the celebration.
  • Provide your godparents’ information. If possible, please ask each Catholic godparent to provide either a sponsor certificate from their parish or a copy of their Confirmation certificate.
  • Meet with Deacon David before the Baptism to review the ceremony and answer any remaining questions. (dbp@sfxparish.com)

If your child is seriously ill or there is another urgent circumstance, please contact the parish immediately so that arrangements can be made as soon as possible.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When are baptisms celebrated?

Baptisms are ordinarily celebrated on Sundays following the 10:30 a.m. Mass. The front pews are reserved for the family and godparents, and we encourage all family members and guests to participate in the Mass before the Baptism. The baptism ceremony begins shortly after Mass concludes. If another day or time would better accommodate your family, please speak with Father Ryan, and we will do our best to arrange a time that works.

Can someone who isn’t Catholic be a godparent?

A baptized non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness alongside one Catholic godparent. Someone who is not baptized cannot serve as a godparent or Christian witness.

What if one of my godparents can’t attend?

A proxy may stand in for the absent godparent during the ceremony.

Is there a fee?

There is no fee for Baptism. If you would like to make a donation, you are welcome to do so, but it is never required.

LEARN MORE
Why Baptize Your Baby? (Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Reborn: The Heart of Baptism (FORMED)
Catholic Parenting Resources
Understanding the Role of Godparents