Baptism

Baptism Policies For Infants And Children 1 To 6 Years Old:

The followed documentation should be brought to the Parish Office at least TWO WEEKS before the Baptism. Otherwise, your child’s baptism may be postponed to the next available Baptism celebration date at the parish.

When all requirements are satisfied, the date for the Baptism will be assigned at least two weeks before the Baptism.There is no charge or fee for Baptism, however there is a suggested contribution of $50 for a registered parishioner or $75 for a non-registered parishioner. This donation is at your discretion and should be paid once all the documentation is in order. We do not accept payment on the day of the baptism.

Observations:

• It is traditional to dress your child in white.
• Children through the history have been given a saint name or one from the bible.
• If one of the natural parents plans not to attend the ceremony, then that parent should give notarized permission for the baptism especially if they are recognized as the parent on the birth certificate. Cases of disputed custody should be discussed with the priest.
• If parents have not been married in the Catholic Church, they are strongly encourage to discuss marriage or convalidation with the priest.

Documentation required:

Below is a checklist to assist you with the requirements.

Checklist for Parents:

• Properly completed Baptism form.
• Copy of child’s Birth Certificate.
• Certificate that parents attended the baptismal preparation class.
• If parents are non-parishioners, attach the permission letter from the church they attend.
• If parent are parishioners, Family Number should be included in the application.
• If divorced or absent parent, attach a letter giving permission to baptize the child.

Checklist for Godparents:

• Certificate that Godparent(s) attended the baptismal preparation class.
• If Godparents are non-parishioners or do not live within the boundaries of San Isidro, attach the permission letter from the church they attend indicating:
  • They are active members, and
  • They are eligible to be godparents.
• If Godparents are parishioners, their parishioner family number should be included in the application.
• The Godparent should qualify according the Church’s Canon Law (See below)

Who can be a Godparent?

The responsibility of a Godparent is to help the baptized person lead a good Catholic life. The Godparents promise to be an example in their own life and lead a Christian life that reflects the spirit and teachings of our Catholic Religion.

• The godparent is at least 16 years old.
• He/she has received the sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation.
• Proof may be asked in the form of sacramental certificates.
• If married, has to be not only civil married, but also married by the Catholic Church.
• The godparent has to lead a life of faith.
• Regularly attend Sunday Mass and receive Holy Communion and Confession frequently.
• The Godparent must not be bound by any canonical or church penalty.
• There is to be only one male sponsor or one female sponsor or one of each.
• Any Godparent who is unable to attend the baptism, should have a proxy represent them at the celebration in their place.
• The name of the Godparent will appear on the child’s baptismal certificate. Proxys MUST meet the same requirements as the godparent.

Who cannot be a Godparent?

• A non-baptized person may not act as a Godparent.
• A single person who is not married but cohabiting with someone is not permitted to serve as a godparent.
• Cannot be the father or mother of the one to be baptized.
• A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community is not to participate except together with a Catholic sponsor and then only as a witness of the baptism.

Ceremony and classes:

The ceremony last about an hour. PLEASE BE ON TIME. If you are late, the ceremony will start without you and you will risk postponing the Baptism for another date.