“Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the
Spirit…through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God;
we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers
in the Church’s mission…”

Paragraph 1213, Catechism of the Church, 1994

Parents

It is important that parishioners bringing their children to our parish for the sacrament of Baptism, understand their responsibility as Christian parents. The world in which we live has become more and more complex and challenging. In order for our young people to grow in their faith, this faith needs to be nourished from birth. Parents are the primary teachers of their children in everything, including faith and prayer.

*Please note that Baptisms are held as a group; they are no private baptisms.

Baptismal Preparation

Baptism arrangements may be made prior to or shortly after the birth of your child. Baptisms are held once a month on:

2nd Saturday of the month @ 11:00am- Baptisms in English
3rd Saturday of the month @ 11:00am- Baptisms in Spanish

Parents and at least 1 of the godparents are required to attend a Baptismal Preparation class BEFORE the Baptism of the child. This class is intended to give the parents and godparents a full understanding of what the Sacrament of Baptism is, and the commitment they are making with the Lord when they decide to have their child baptized in the Catholic Church.

Arrangements can be made for scheduling both the date of the Baptism and the Baptismal Preparation by calling the Faith Formation Office at: 201-796-3521 ext. 204

Sponsors (i.e. Godparents)

Parents, with the help of sponsors, are to instruct the child in the practice of the faith, sharing their faith, teaching them about God’s love, praying with them, and making sure they grow to become responsible and morally mature Catholic Christian adults.

Because the role of sponsors is so important, parents should make this choice wisely.

Traditionally parents choose two sponsors, but the Church only requires one. The sponsors for baptism MUST BE:

1. At least sixteen years of age
2. A fully-initiated Catholic, that is, they have to have received the Sacraments of:
   • Baptism
   • First Eucharist
   • Confirmation
3. They must be people who are active Catholics (that means they go to Church and are living out a Christian life!)
4. If there are two sponsors, they must be of opposite gender
5. If a sponsor is married, that marriage must be recognized by the Church