Congratulations on becoming a parent! We're looking forward to celebrating your child’s first sacrament. The following information will help you through the Baptismal process.
THE FIRST STEP
Parishioners are asked to contact the parish office as soon as possible prior to the birth of the child. Information will be taken and any questions that you may have will be answered.
BAPTISMAL SEMINAR
Parents, Godparents and/or Christian witnesses must attend a seminar before the baptism. It is a good idea to take care of this prior to the birth of the baby.
You are welcome to attend a seminar here at Holy Family Parish but are not limited to this parish alone. If a seminar in another parish fits your schedule better, it is perfectly fine to attend there. A letter or certificate of completion will need to be turned in to this office so that we have proof of your attendance.
Baptismal Seminars are usually one evening and typically last approximately 1 hour. If you have completed a Baptismal Seminar at Holy Family or another Catholic church within (4) years, you will not be expected to attend the seminar again. If this applies, a written verification is required.
Seminars are usually held on the second Tuesday of the even-numbered months at 6:30 p.m. in Marian Hall. Please call the office prior to attendance.
GODPARENT & CHRISTIAN WITNESS CRITERIA
Godparent(s) must be Baptized, Confirmed, and a registered, active and practicing member of their Catholic church parish. A letter from their church parish stating this must be submitted before the baptism.
If married, Godparents must have been married in the Catholic Church.
Christian Witnesses must be of a non-Catholic Christian faith (never baptized Catholic) and must be actively practicing their faith.
Both Godparents and Christian Witnesses must be at least 16 years of age.
Only one Godparent is required for baptism.
SCHEDULING A DATE FOR BAPTISM
Once everyone has attended a Baptismal Seminar and all paperwork is received in our office, a date for the Baptism can be scheduled. Baptisms are held each month and normally take place at Mass. There are no baptisms during Advent or Lent.