Sacrament of Baptism

The Parish Community of St. Veronica rejoices with you on the occasion of the birth and baptism of your child.  Baptism “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” washes away original sin, begins a life of grace, and introduces the baptized into the Catholic Church.  “As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet, and King, so may you live always as a member of his body, sharing everlasting life.”

Parents and godparents are the primary teachers of the faith and, with Baptism, commit themselves to helping the baptized to grow in faith throughout their lives.  Baptism is received only once because its effect is meant to last a lifetime.

A Communal Sacrament

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2nd ed.) reminds us that “Baptism incorporates us into the Church” and “makes us members of the Body of Christ” (No. 1267).   The following is our baptism schedule:

• 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month.

Baptism arrangements for dates and times are made through the parish office and should be made well in advance.  Godparents (Sponsors) for Baptism (and Sponsors for Confirmation) must supply a Sponsor certificate, also called a Letter of Eligibility, from the parish that they currently belong to and attend Mass on a regular basis.  Please contact the parish office for additional information and requirements needed prior to scheduling a date.  The hours of the parish office can be found on the “Contact Us” page (via the “About Us” scroll-down menu, at the top of each webpage).

Preparation for the Sacrament

1. 1.  As the first in the Catholic Church’s three Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism is a time of special joy and blessing for each family.  In seeking baptism for their child, parents make a public promise to journey with them, to be their first teachers in the faith, and to offer a guiding hand.  During the Rite of Baptism, a child will be welcomed into our parish family and the universal Church.  As members of the Church, we are all connected to each other, and therefore our parish community is committed to partner with the family in nurturing the faith of a child.  We provide families with the resources, guidance, and Sacramental preparation needed to continue to raise your child in the Catholic Faith.
   2.  The first step in arranging a baptism is to be sure the parent(s) are registered parishioners.

Baptism Preparation Class

To help understand the full meaning of baptizing a child in the Catholic faith, all first-time parents are required to attend a baptismal preparation class.  Registration is required and both parents are expected to attend.

The Role and Responsibility of Godparents (Sponsors)

The Church takes very seriously the important role of being a Godparent (Sponsor).  A sponsor must be someone who can represent the Church in the continuing faith formation of their godchild. Choosing a sponsor would be based on the person’s dedication to the Faith and regular practice thereof.  To be chosen as a Godparent for Baptism is a great honor that carries with it great responsibility.  The role of the sponsor is to help form their godchild in the Catholic Faith, to be a good role model, and to inspire their godchild to live an authentic Catholic Christian life.  Thus, in accordance with the Code of Canon Law (C. 872, 874, 892, and 893), the Catholic Church requires the following of Godparents (Sponsors):

I AFFIRM THAT:

1. 1.   I am 16 years or older.
   2.   I have received the Sacraments of Initiation.  I am a fully initiated (Confirmed) member of the Catholic Church in Full Communion.
   3.   (If married)  My marriage is recognized by the Catholic Church.
   4.   I am a registered parishioner who regularly practices my faith and attends Mass regularly.

We cannot grant letters of eligibility to prospective Sacramental Sponsors if these criteria are not met.