Baptism initiates us into the faith community, frees us from Original Sin and opens the way for us to receive the other sacraments of the Church.
"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)
"The parents of an infant who is to be baptized and likewise those who are to undertake the office of sponsor (godparent) are to be properly instructed in the meaning of this sacrament and the obligations which are attached to it." (Code of Canon Law Can. 851)
Parents seeking the baptism of their child must make an appointment with the pastor, preferably several months before the birth of the child. The pastor will instruct the parents on their duties and obligations. Since the parents will serve as the child's primary role model and spiritual guide, the pastor must insure that the parents are living out their Catholic faith. If in doubt, the pastor may delay the baptism until the parents show some positive sign of their faith commitment. We require that the parents also attend a baptismal seminar held on the first Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Rectory.
Sponsors serve as the child's godparents. The Code of Canon Law (Canon 874.2) sets down the requirements for the sponsor as one:
1. Designated by the parents to perform this role;
2. at least sixteen years old;
3. is a confirmed Catholic and leads a life in harmony with the faith;
4. not bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared; (i.e. living in an invalid marriage);
5. ...not the father or the mother of the one to be baptized. (c.f. Code of Canon Law Canon 874.1)
A parent can select as one of the sponsors a baptized non-Catholic to serve with a Catholic sponsor. However this person does not receive the designation of 'godparent' but as 'Christian witness.'
The tradition of giving the child the name of a saint reflects the community's belief in the 'communion of saints'. Through baptism we become part of the Church which exist in both in the earthly and heavenly realm. The name of a saint helps the child to later identify with one whom the Church recognizes has achieved our ultimate goal of being one with God in heaven. The saint becomes a role model and a source of intercessory prayer.
We will baptize the baby of a single parent provided the parent meets the requirements set down for all parents. The father's name will not appear on the baptismal certificate unless we receive a notarized statement of paternity.
We will baptize the baby of parents living in a civil marriage. We hope that the parents will use this opportunity to convalidate their marriage so that they can return to the sacraments. The priest will assist them in preparing them.
The Church urges parents to seek the baptism of their child as soon as possible after birth. But what happens when a child dies without baptism? Since the child has done nothing to reject this source of salvation we trust the child's soul to the hands of God.
"With respect to children who have died without Baptism, the liturgy of the Church invites us to trust in God's mercy and to pray for their salvation." (Catechism #1283)
FURTHER INFORMATION
This document outlines some important points regarding infant baptism. Please contact the priest for any further explanation.