Baptism Regulations And Form

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 and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: ~Catechism of the Catholic Church

Preparation for the Sacrament:

Prior to meeting for the baptismal preparation, parents are required to listen to a CD/MP3. A copy of the talk can be borrowed from the parish office or if more convenient, can be downloaded (unfortunately at a cost of $2.50 in US funds) at the following link. Once listened to, parents then set up a time for the baptismal preparation session. It can be purchased here.

The Selecting of Sponsors/Godparents…

Godparents are sometimes seen merely as a honorary title that you wish to give to someone such as our family or friends. However, they are more than that.

The godparent’s role is to be a help and support for parents in their child’s religious formation. As such they should be chosen because they demonstrate a life that is in accord with the Catholic faith which the child is to be raised in.

With this in mind the following are prerequisites for godparents according to the Canon Law

Either male or female, or both, but not two males or two females
Only one sponsor is required
16 years or older.
Be a baptised Roman Catholic, have been confirmed and made their first communion, and lead a life of faith consistent with the function to be taken on.
Not be under any Church penalty such as excommunication or suspension
Not be a father or the mother of the person being baptised