“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. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission”
[Catechism of the Catholic Church Part 2, Section 2, Ch. 1, 1213]
Process:
A child is baptized into the Church family at the parish level. Therefore the parents or guardians seeking to baptize a child at St. Francis Xavier of Acushnet should first register their household with the parish office.
Once this is complete the parents will meet with Fr. Riley Williams who will explain the parental responsibilities of infant baptism. The parents will be given a form to sign and another form for both of the sponsors/godparents to sign. These forms will confirm their understanding of their role in raising the child in the Catholic Church.
Remember to bring the child’s official birth certificate to your appointment!
Sponsors (i.e. godparents) must show that they are practicing Catholics by obtaining a Sponsor Certificate from their own pastor. Proof of Confirmation is not enough to show that one is a qualified sponsor. As a matter of procedure the parish does not schedule a date for the baptism until the parents have met with the pastor and until qualified sponsors are in place.
Baptism is a most joyous event. We ask that if a baptism occurs after a Sunday Mass, that not only the parents and godparents, but the entire family that will be in attendance at the baptism also be present at the Holy Mass preceding the baptism. In this way the family is well prepared spiritually for the baptism and the parish community can give a proper welcome to the child and his or her family.
Parents are reminded that baptism is the beginning of the child’s life of grace and that their regular Sunday attendance at Mass with the child is both an obligation and a blessing.
Older children or adults desiring baptism and the other Sacraments of Initiation should contact the parish office at (508) 995-7600.
