The next baptismal class will be held on November 6, 2008. Call the parish office to register.

BAPTISMS AT HOLY FAMILY PARISH

WE WELCOME YOU AND YOUR CHILD

 Preparation  A Baptism preparation session is held four times a year.  To have your child baptized, you need to attend a session if you have not done so at Holy Family Parish within the past two years.

 Godparents  Godparents must be Catholic, baptized, confirmed, registered in a Catholic Parish, attending Mass on Sundays and Holy Days and eligible to receive the sacraments.  For example, if they are married they would have been married in the Catholic Church.  If divorced and remarried, they would have obtained an annulment and have been married in the Catholic Church.

Godparents are to be living the kind of faith you would like your child to have.  In choosing godparents you give them the responsibility of making sure your child is raised as a practicing Catholic.  You may choose someone who would be strong enough to carry out this responsibility if you were no longer able, or to confront you if you were not carrying out your responsibility of raising your child as a practicing Catholic.

 Witnesses  Although non-Catholics and those who have not been confirmed may not be Godparents, they may be witnesses.  Only one Godparent is required.  Only godparent/s will be listed in the Church Baptism Register.   

 Date of Baptism  Please call the Parish Office (323-7116) to  confirm the date and Mass time at which you wish to have your child baptized. The required forms (given to you at the preparation session or sent via the mail) must be at the office before a baptism date can be confirmed.

 Mass  Parents, godparents and child gather at the back of Church at least 10 minutes before Mass.  Father will begin the initiation ceremony here by asking the name (first, middle, last) of the child and your intent to have the child baptized. 

           Promises 

Parents, you have asked to have your child baptized.  In doing so you are accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the Faith.  It will be your duty to bring them to Church on Sundays and Holy Days and to teach them to live as Christ has taught us, by loving God and neighbor.  Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?”

 “We do.”

         “Godparents, are you willing to help these parents in raising this child as a child of God?”

            “We are.”

 Sign of the Cross  The priest will then trace the Sign of the Cross on the child’s forehead and will invite parents, Godparents, family and friends to do the same. 

Processional  You will process in with the servers, the reader, and Father. The front pew/s have been reserved for you and your family.

 After the Prayers of the Faithful  At this time the baptism is completed with the pouring of the water, giving of the white garment and the presentation of the candle, lit from the Easter Candle.  Father will  call you forward after he blesses the water.

The parish provides the baptismal candle for you.  You are encouraged to have a white baptismal gown for your child. If your child is not wearing a white gown, a small “symbolic” robe will be provided for use during the ceremony.  Both the candle and robe are yours to take home to keep and use.

 Photos  Photos may be taken at any time from the first pews.  We do ask that you not go into the sanctuary to take pictures.  Photos will be very valuable as you help your child to understand the Sacrament of Baptism and the promises you have made.

 Offering  Your fifteen dollar thanksgiving offering, recommended by the Diocese, goes to the parish fund for works of charity.  An offering for the priest is appropriate also.

Reserved seating  A pew/s at the front of Church will be reserved for you. Please inform your family if you want them to sit with you in these reserved seats.

 Brothers and sisters  Siblings are invited and welcome to participate in the baptism. They may join in the procession at the beginning of Mass.  Be sure to give them lots of attention on the baptism day too. Displaying their baptism photos, candle and white garment helps them feel included. This is a great chance to teach them more about baptism and the promises you made on their behalf.  You might also stress the obligation of the entire family to set a good example for the newly baptized to follow.

 Advent and Lent  During these two liturgical seasons, baptisms will take place after the Masses.

 Prayers  We hold you in care and prayers as you prepare for the baptism of your child.  We hope you help your child understand that the Church is our spiritual home.  We look forward to providing Religious Education and Catholic School opportunities for your child.  Plan ahead so you can provide the very best!

 Data for Baptism Register Form

Godparent Eligibility Form

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