Baptism Sacramental Preparation
Holy baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God; we become members of Christ, and are incorporated into the Church: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the Word.”
For all the baptized, children or adults, faith must grow after Baptism. For this reason, the Church celebrates each year at the Easter Vigil the renewal of baptismal promises. Preparation for Baptism leads only to the threshold of new life. Baptism is the source of that new life in Christ from which the entire Christian life springs forth.
That day will be the beginning of life in Christ and life in the Church for your child. We hope as well that it will be an opportunity for recommitment to your faith for yourselves.
Please keep the following information in mind in preparation for your child’s baptism:
Parents must be registered parishioners of Sacred Heart Church. A registered parishioner is one who attends mass on a regular basis, receives, and uses offertory envelopes. If you are not a member of this parish, we do require a letter of permission from your parish in order for the child to receive the sacrament at Sacred Heart Church.
Parents must present a copy of the child’s birth certificate to the parish office.
The Catholic Church asks there be one or two godparents. If there are two godparents, one should be male, and the other female. A godparent must be fully
initiated (Baptized, First Holy Communion, & Confirmed), practicing Catholic at least 16 years of age. If married, the godparent must be married in a Catholic Church.
Godparents are required to provide a letter from their parish indicating that they have received the required sacraments and are qualified to serve as godparents.