The Sacrament of Baptism
Information for celebrating Baptism at Precious
Blood Catholic ChurchBefore celebrating
Baptism, the church invites parents and Godparents to reflect on the full meaning and significance of presenting
a child for initiation into the Body of Christ.
Baptism is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation.
Through the sacrament of Baptism, a child is initiated into the Body of Christ, the Church; shares in the new life
of Jesus Christ; and, with the assistance of the Holy Spirit, embarks on a life-long journey in which he or she will grow
and mature in the Catholic faith.
"Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life
in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), 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, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers
in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.""
- (Catechism of
the Catholic Church 1213)
Baptism Schedule:
1st Saturday: 10 AM Class in English
2nd Saturday: 10 AM Sacrament in English
3rd Saturday: 10 AM Class in Spanish
4th Saturday: 10 AM Sacrament in Spanish
"Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into
Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ
was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." (Rom 6:3-4).
Choosing Godparents
Being a Godparent is not just an honor given to a good friend or relative. It implies
a real appreciation of the Faith, one which is shown by religious practice. There must be a sense of responsibility toward
the person being Baptized. Baptism does not merely confer privileges. It creates an indelible mark on the soul which brings
obligations. Baptism brings both the burden and the victory of the Cross into our lives.
Most Catholics are baptized as infants, and so the parents and Godparents must profess the Catholic
Faith on their behalf. If they are not practicing the Faith and living according to the Gospel, they cannot make the
profession of Faith without swearing a false oath. It is expected that a person chosen to be a Godparent gives evidence
that he/she believes what the Church teaches and gives witness to that Faith.
Requirements for Godparents
Canon Laws 774, 872, 873, 874, 892, 893, 920 and 989 require:
1. The Godparent must be a Catholic
who has been confirmed, and has already received the Sacrament of the Most Holy Eucharist and leads a life in harmony with
the Faith and the role as Godparent. A baptized Christian can participate by being a witness.
2. Only one Godparent is required, but usually there is one Godmother
and one Godfather. There cannot be two Godmothers or two Godfathers.
3. The Godparent(s) may not be the father or mother of the one to be baptized.
4. Godparents must be in their 16th year or more.
5. They must know the fundamental truths of the Faith and be practicing Catholics, who go to Mass
on Sundays and Holy Days, and receive the Sacraments periodically. By Church precept, they must receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation
at least once a year when conscious of serious sin and receive Communion during the Easter time.