St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church welcomes you and your child!
Baptism is the beginning of the journey of faith for your child. Through baptism, your child will receive the Holy Spirit and becomes a disciple, a follower of Christ and a member of God’s family, the Church. It is your responsibility as the child’s parents to be the role models for your child on this journey of faith.
If your child is still on his or her way or here already, and is less than 7 years old, this is the place to begin the steps towards their Baptism!
PARENTS
Parents are required to meet with the priest prior to the planned baptism.
A copy of the child’s birth certificate must be provided.
First time parents must attend a Baptism Preparation class at Catholic parish. Proof of attendance is required. Godparents should be invited and encouraged to attend Baptismal Preparation in order to better understand their role as godparents. The godparent should be willing to accept the responsibility of assisting the parents in developing the Catholic faith life of the child.
GODPARENTS
They must be practicing Catholics who are able to give the example of a good Catholic life.
At least one Godparent is required, however it is customary to have two. One man and one woman.
Godparents should be at least 16 years of age.
They must have received the Sacraments of Baptism, the Holy Eucharist and Confirmation in the Catholic Church.
If married, even if they are standing alone or with someone other than their spouse, the marriage must be validly recognized by the Catholic Church (and not simply a civil marriage or living with a partner outside of marriage).
If they are from another parish, they are required to provide a letter of good standing signed by their parish Pastor.
BAPTISMAL ETIQUETTE
Please try to be in the church at least 15 minutes early. We will start on time!
Since the Church is a sacred place, loud talking and other distracting forms of behavior are out of order.
All cell phones and beepers should be turned off when you are in the church.
One designated photographer during the celebration of the sacrament of Baptism and photos should also be taken from a discreet distance. Following the ceremony, you may take other pictures with the priest, family members, etc.