According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (or CCC), water baptism is the first sacrament and gives access to the other required sacraments. It is also the act that forgives sins, grants spiritual rebirth, and makes one a member of the church (CCC, 1213). The Catholic Church also believes that Jesus requires one’s baptism in order to receive eternal life.

Baptism Classes in Spanish are held on the First Friday of each month.  They are in Kennedy Hall at 7:00 p.m.  No need to pre-register.  If possible, both parents and both sponsors should attend this class.  Little ones need to be left at home, please.

Baptism Classes in English are by appointment through the Church Office.

Qualifications of Sponsors:  

• Sponsors must be active and contributing members of the Catholic Church (for exceptions, talk with the pastor).

• Sponsors must be fully initiated (they must have received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation).

• Sponsors must be mature enough to assume the responsibilities involved.  Their own lives should be full of faith and Christian service -- as an example and as a source of encouragement.

• If sponsors are not from this parish, they must provide verification from their own Pastor that they are a member in good standing and they have permission to be godparents.

• If a sponsor is married, they must have been married in the  Catholic Church or had their marriage recognized by the Catholic Church.

• A person is not qualified to be a sponsor if they are living with someone outside of marriage.  

All information must be received in the Church Office before a baptism may be scheduled.  Baptisms in Spanish are held the first Saturday of each month at 3:00 p.m.  These baptisms are normally performed by the Deacon.  All other baptisms are usually during or after Masses.  The priests are usually not available to perform baptisms on Saturdays, except during or after a Mass.