Baptism

"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: 'Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."'

Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213

We welcome your family on this joyous occasion of the celebration of your child’s baptism! We look forward to assisting your family in preparing for the baptism of your child. 

If you would like to baptize a child at St Patrick's, please complete the Baptism Registration Form and bring it to the Parish Office, along with a copy of your child's Birth Certificate.  The registration form must be brought to the parish office prior to registering for the Baptism Preparation Class.  The Birth Certificate must be turned into the parish office at least one week prior to the scheduled baptism.

Baptism Preparation classes are usually held the last Sundays of each month from 2:00pm -4:00pm. Both Parents and Godparents are required to attend the classes.

Godparents must be at least 18 years of age, be an active member of the Catholic Church, and have been initiated into the three sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation & Eucharist (Communion). If a Godparent is married, it must be a valid Catholic Marriage.  There may be one or two Godparents, but if two, one must be female and the other male. 

Each Godparent will need a letter from their pastor stating that he/she is an active member of his/her parish, has his permission to be a Godparent, and has attended a Baptism Preparation Class.  This letter must be turned into the parish office at least one week prior to the scheduled baptism.

A person who is not a Catholic but is a member of a Christian Church with a valid baptism and who has received that valid Baptism in their own church can act as a Christian Witness for the child.  In that case, the other sponsor needs to be a fully initiated practicing Catholic.