The Christian community of St. Ann Parish is happy to welcome your child as a member of God’s family in the Sacrament of Baptism.
Baptism is the first of the “Sacraments of Initiation” which also include Confirmation and Eucharist. In Baptism your child receives the new life of grace in Jesus Christ. Confirmation strengthens the Baptismal grace and commitment, and regular celebration of the Eucharist is our nourishment for our Christian journey.
Baptism, then, is rightly seen as the “gateway” to the other sacraments, and the first step on a lifelong journey of faith. We hope that you will recognize it as such and do everything you can to ensure that your child continues to be formed in the Catholic faith in which he or she is baptized.
This brochure has been prepared for your information, as you prepare for this joyful occasion in the life of your family. Please read it and contact our parish office to make the necessary arrangements for baptism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be baptized?
Any child or adult not previously baptized in the Catholic Church or another mainline Christian community. In the case of infants, generally at least one of the parents will be a baptized, practicing Catholic.
What about adult baptism?
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is specifically designed to assist adults in their preparation for baptism and/or the other sacraments of initiation. The process begins in September and the sacraments of initiation are celebrated at the Easter Vigil.
How do I request baptism?
Kindly contact our parish office and speak with the secretary. She will be able to schedule an appointment for both parents to come speak with Father at which point a date will be booked. Generally, baptisms are celebrated once a month on the first Sunday afternoon at 12:15pm. In particular cases the celebration of baptism may take place at Sunday Mass.
How far in advance of my desired date should I call?
It is a good idea to call at least six weeks before the desired date of baptism. Sometimes couples contact the parish office even before their baby has been born.
Do the parents of the child have to be registered at St. Ann Parish?
Any Catholic living in the territory of our parish is considered to be a member of St. Ann’s Parish. However, we do encourage Catholics to register as a sign of commitment to the parish. Registration forms can be obtained at the church doors.
Catholics who live outside our parish territory but who regularly attend here should certainly be registered to establish membership.
Catholics who have family members in our parish or who, for another good reason, wish to have their child baptized here, may do so with a letter of permission from their proper parish priest.
Do parents have to be married in the Catholic Church to have their child baptized?
Children will not be denied baptism because of the marital status of their parents. For the sake of family stability and faith practice, however, it is seen as a proper thing that Catholic parents be married according to the rites of the Church. Where this is not the case, you will be asked to meet with one of the priests so that we may better understand your situation and assist you.
Who can be a godparent/sponsor?
The rite of Baptism itself is very clear on this: godparents must be baptized and confirmed Catholics, at least 16 years old, living a life consistent with the faith and the responsibility of a godparent.
Can a non-Catholic be a godparent?
A baptized Christian may act as a Christian Witness to the baptism. A Christian witness must be accompanied by a Catholic godparent.
Multiple Godparents? Two of the same gender?
The rite of Baptism requires only one godparent. Where two are chosen, the norms speak of a godfather and godmother. Should you choose additional sponsors please note that only two names will appear on the certificate and in the Register of Baptism, one male and one female.
Do we have to attend a Baptism Preparation Course?
Parents are required to take the mandatory Baptism Preparation Program, which consists of one class, on a Tuesday evening at 7:30pm. Parents who have already participated in a Preparation Program within the last 3 years may be excused from this at the discretion of the pastor.
Do godparents attend the class?
Godparents and Christian Witnesses are welcome and encouraged to attend, especially if they live locally. However, if they live a distance away, they are not obliged to attend.
Where is the Baptism recorded?
Our parish, like every Catholic parish, keeps complete records of all baptisms celebrated in our church. Copies of certificates can be obtained from the parish office.
You are to be commended for wishing to share the gift of your Catholic faith with your child. We are always here to help you as you continue to raise your child in the faith and help him or her to become a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.