How do I get my child baptized?

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 sons of God; we become members of Christ, and we are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission. 

What is Baptism?

Baptism is a sacrament of initiation, cleansing, strengthening, and welcoming.  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 sons of God; we become members of Christ, and we are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.  Baptism leaves a permanent spiritual mark on our soul that makes us holy and opens us to salvation and eternal life with God.

How do I schedule a Baptism?

Step 1: Gather Paperwork
To schedule a Baptism, please first gather the following paperwork

• • Copy of child’s Birth Certificate
  • A Certificate of Eligibility for your Catholic godparents.  Please review our Godparent Requirements.  Godparents who are registered members of Nativity do not need to provide a certificate.
  •  Please note: If this is your first child to be baptized, it is required for parents to take Baptism Prep.

Step 2: Fill out the Nativity Baptism Application
You have two options:

• • Fill out the Online Baptism Application
  • or
  • Pick up a Baptism Packet at the Parish Office to be completed and returned.

Step 3: Nativity Schedules the Baptism Date
After all the paperwork and application are received, our Baptismal Coordinator will contact you review and confirm the date of Baptism.

When are Baptisms?

Baptism are held at 2:30 pm in the Church on the first and third Sunday of each month for registered parishioners.

How do we prepare for our child’s Baptism?

Parents must attend a Baptism Preparation class prior to having their first child baptized.  We also encourage Godparents to the class!

Who can be a Godparent?

A Godparent plays a pivotal role in a child’s life.  Below is a summary of requirements; please review these before selecting Godparents.

Godparent Requirements:

• Only one Godparent is required.  If you would like to have two Godparents, one must be male and the other must be female. 
• Parents of the child being baptized cannot be the child’s Godparents.  Grandparents or other family members may serve in this role.
• Must be at least 16 years old
• A practicing Catholic who has received First Communion and Confirmation.  A Catholic who is not practicing his or her faith cannot participate as a Christian witness or Godparent.
• If married, must be recognized by the Catholic Church
• A baptized, practicing Christian may not be a Godparent, but may participate as a Christian witness.
• The Godparent does not have to be present at the baptism.  A proxy may stand in his or her place.
• Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from their home parish stating they are able to serve in this role