Baptism at Saint Andrew Catholic Church

sacrament of baptismThe Sacrament of Baptism

Baptism is the first of the three “Sacraments of Christian Initiation.” Confirmation and Eucharist are the others. Baptism welcomes the person into the family of God and membership in the Body of Christ. It is a sacrament we receive only once.

Baptism is the greatest gift a person can receive, whether as an infant, child, or adult. Baptism frees us from sin and starts us on our life-long journey to know and love God. Baptism is not something to “get done” because of family tradition. It is the entry into a Catholic Christian community and a life of faith in Jesus Christ. This is why the Catholic Church encourages baptism in infancy rather than waiting until a child can choose for his/herself. Why deprive a child of God’s special love and a good start in a life of faith by delaying baptism until later?

Here are some frequently asked questions (and their answers) about the sacrament of baptism.

Just click on the question to reveal the answer…

How do I arrange baptism for my baby?

We are happy to help you arrange for the baptism of your baby! Contact the Pastoral Life Coordinator, at the parish office. You may also click on the link below and complete the baptism registration form. After this is received in the office, you will be contacted to confirm the location and time you wish.

Do I have to attend a class in order to have my baby baptized?

Perhaps! Attendance at a one-time retreat is almost always required for first-time parents and godparents. Whether you need to attend class or not is determined by the pastoral life coordinator.

My child is older. How do I arrange for baptism?

Baptism of children younger than second grade age is arranged in the same manner as baptism of infants.

Baptism of second grade children is administered at the time of Confirmation and First Eucharist, usually each spring. Special preparation for baptism will be offered in religious education classes.

Baptism of junior high or high school age children is administered either at the Easter Vigil or on Easter Sunday. These children will receive additional preparation for their sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) throughout the school year to prepare them for the Easter celebration.

I am an adult. How can I be baptized in the Catholic Church?

If you have not been baptized in any other faith and would like to learn more about the Catholic faith, contact the office at Saint Andrew for more information. We have a program called “Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults”. We are happy to have you join us!

I was baptized in another faith. Do I have to be re-baptized?

No. Baptism is a one-time only sacrament. As long as you were baptized using the words “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” the Catholic Church recognizes your baptism as valid. We will need proof of your baptism from the church where it occurred.

Who can be a godparent?

Godparents assist the parents in raising a child in the Catholic faith. Godparents must be practicing Catholics over 16 years of age who have received baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist.

A non-Catholic baptized in a recognized Christian faith may serve as a “Christian Witness” to a baptism.

Can I have only one godparent?

The ideal is to have one godmother and one godfather, imitating the Holy Family of Mary and Joseph. However, it is permissible to have only one godparent. This person MUST be a practicing Catholic over 16 years of age who has received baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist.

Two godmothers or two godfathers are not permitted.