Baptism
Baptism is the first and foundational sacrament of the Christian life. The word baptize comes from the Greek word, meaning to immerse (cf. CCC 1214). Pope Francis explains that while the body is immersed in water, the soul is immersed in Christ to receive forgiveness and shine with divine light. Baptism unites us with Jesus in his death and resurrection, freeing us from sin and making us new in Him.
Baptism also incorporates us into the Church, the Body of Christ. As Pope Francis says, “We baptized are not isolated: we are members of the Body of Christ” (cf. 1 Cor 12:13). We are united by the Holy Spirit and nourished by the Eucharist to bear fruit in the world.
Whether received as adults or infants, Baptism is always a gift freely given. It is the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and mission. Through it, we are “christified”—made like Christ—and called to live in His image. The grace of Baptism is not meant to remain hidden, but to shape every part of our lives, guiding us until we reach the Heavenly Jerusalem.
(based on Pope Francis, General Audience, 11 April 2018)
Requesting a Copy of a
Baptismal Certificate
We ask that all people requesting a copy of their baptism certificate fill out our certificate request form (available by request from our parish office). Once the form is completed and returned to the parish office, we we will notify you when the certificate copy is ready for pickup. There is an administrative fee associated with this service. At this time, we can only accept payment via cash or cheque. These certificates can only be requested by:
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The person named in the certificate
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A parent of legal guardian of the person named in the record if the person is not yet 18
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The children or descendants of deceased persons
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A person with written authorization from one of the parties named above
Proof of identity will be required. If you have any questions, please contact the parish office.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO CAN RECEIVE THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM?
The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “every person not yet baptized” is able to receive the Sacrament of Baptism (CCC 1246). Under ordinary circumstances, parents should have their child baptised as soon as possible after the birth.
WHEN DO WE SET A DATE FOR THE BAPTISM?
The date of the Baptism will be set after speaking with our pastor. Baptisms are celebrated during a Mass, preferably during a weekend Mass. Please contact the parish before setting a date or making any other arrangements for the baptism.
ARE THERE FAITH REQUIREMENTS OF PARENTS WHO WISH TO HAVE THEIR CHILD BAPTISED?
Parents must express their willingness to have their child baptised in the Faith of the Catholic Church. At least one parent must be a practising Catholic, allowing for some hope that the child will be brought up in the Catholic Faith.
Are there baptism preparation sessions?
Parents requesting infant baptism must complete one baptism preparation session. Both parents must attend the session. Please speak with our pastor to arrange a time for the preparation session.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A GODPARENT?
Godparents, acting as representatives of the Christian community, assist the priest and parents in welcoming the child into both the parish community and the Catholic Church. Godparents act as role models for those being baptised and help the parents in the Catholic upbringing of their child.
The Code of Canon Law describes some of the requirements for being a Godparent (Canon 874):
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There is to be only one male or one female sponsor or one of each. One person is not able to have more than one Godfather or more than one Godmother.
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A Godparent must be at least 16 years old
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A Godparent must be a Catholic who has received the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, First Eucharist and Confirmation)
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A Godparent must be a person who leads a life of faith in keeping with the teachings of the Catholic Church
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A Godparent must not be the father or mother of the person receiving the Sacrament of Baptism
ARE THERE COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH BAPTISM?
There are no costs associated with receiving the Sacrament of Baptism in our church. If you would like, you may offer a stipend to the priest who performs the baptism, or make a donation to our church.