Baptism Preparation

Step 1. Register in the Parish

Parents of the child to be baptized should be registered members of St. Joseph Parish or be from a family registered in the parish before scheduling a baptism.

Step 2. Contact the Parish

Contact the parish to schedule an interview.

Step 3. Baptism Preparation

A baptismal preparation class for first-time parents and godparents takes place on the second Thursday of every month at 7 pm in the Parish Center for English-language speakers. This class can be scheduled by calling the Parish Center noted above. If the parents have taken a baptismal class at another parish or have not taken a class, we ask you to take this class. If you have already taken the class before at St. Joseph, you don’t have to take the class again for five years.

Step 4. The Baptismal Celebration

Baptism for the newborn or other children is regularly scheduled during Saturday/Sunday Masses or on the second Sunday of the month at 1:30 pm for English-language baptisms. The fourth Sunday of the month is reserved for Spanish-language baptisms. For special circumstances, the Baptism may be scheduled at another time.
 

Additional Information

Selecting Godparents

Godparents should play a very important role in your child’s spiritual life. They should serve as role models of the faith.

The Church has three requirements for Roman Catholic godparents:

• A child must have one practicing Roman Catholic godparent in good standing with the Church. This Catholic godparent must be confirmed, at least 16 years old, and be mature enough to understand, accept and carry out the duties of a godparent.

• A non-Catholic, baptized Christian may be chosen as a Christian Witness (C/W), as long as one godparent is Catholic.

Naming Your Child

The name you select in addition to your family name will provide your child with a unique identity. The long-standing tradition of the Church has been to give at least one name of a saint or person from our biblical tradition. A Christian name will provide your child with a model for Christ-centered living.

Pictures at the Baptism

Photographs and videos are encouraged at the baptism ceremony. These are excellent means of sharing the memory of this joyous and special day with your child as he or she grows in age and faith.

Clothing and Candle

A white christening gown is customary but not required. If a hat is worn, it should be removed for the baptism. A white baptismal bib can be supplied by the family or the parish. A baptismal candle will be supplied by the church.

Family Donation

There are no fees for baptisms. However, if you wish, a donation to the Church may be made and is appreciated.

Your Baptismal Records and Certificate

The record of the baptism is kept in the permanent records of St. Joseph Parish. Therefore, please be sure of the accuracy of the information and the spelling of names. If a baptismal certificate is needed at a later date, notify the church where the Baptism took place and a certificate will be mailed to you.