Frequently Asked Questions About Baptism
The grandparents really want our child to be baptized, but we don’t attend mass regularly and aren’t even sure what we believe anymore. Is it right for us to through with the baptism?
As the parents, this is solely your decision. Baptizing a child initiates him/her into the Christian community, as well as publicly stating that you want your child to share in the life and beliefs of the community. It may not mean that you agree with everything in the Catholic Church, but it does mean that you want your child to be part of this faith.
To help you discern where you are on your faith journey, please feel free to use the Faith Journey Self-Assessment below. If you are questioning your own faith or Catholic identity, it would be wise to honestly discuss your questions and doubts with Fr. Bill. You won’t be the first!
When do Baptism take place at Sacred Heart?
Baptisms at Sacred Heart take place at a weekend Mass, the day on which the Church gathers to witness as a community. All sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation) are communal events meaning that these celebrations occur in the presence of the faithful who promise to take an active part in the faith life of the child.
The Baptism liturgy begins with the Reception of the Child in the back of the church as the parents, accompanied by the godparents, present the child for baptism. The child is claimed for Christ Jesus and invited to come closer to the sanctuary as a symbol of the beginning of a new faith journey.
The Rite of Baptism takes place after the homily. The child, parents, godparents
will be invited into the Sanctuary and to the Baptismal font.
Is Photography allowed during Mass?
Photographs and video are excellent means of sharing the memory of this joyous and special day with your child as he/she grows in age and faith. Your photographers and videographers are welcome if they respect the sacred nature of the Mass. Photographers may not enter the sanctuary, and flash photography is prohibited during the ceremony as they are very distracting to the celebrant and the congregation. Father is always happy to stay for pictures with your family after the baptism.
Is there a fee for a Baptism?
There is no fee, however many families wish to offer a donation on the occasion of their child’s Baptism. This may be placed in an envelope and given to Fr. Bill or Pam on the day of the Baptism.
Frequently Asked Questions about God Parents
Who Can Be a God Parent?
What is a Sponsor Certificate?
All godparents (including Christian Witnesses) other than those from Sacred Heart Parish must obtain a certificate/letter from their own parish stating that they are members in good standing and are eligible to act as a godparent/Christian Witness for Baptism. These certificates should be submitted to the Ministry and Operations Manager as soon as possible.
What Does the godparent do at the baptismal ceremony?
The godparents will stand with the parents and publicly acknowledge their commitment to support the child’s parents in raising him/her in the faith. With the parents, they will trace the sign of the cross on the child’s forehead.
During the baptism itself, the godparents will place a hand on the shoulder of the parents symbolizing their support and commitment in their role as Christian godparents.
What if a godparent can’t be present at the baptismal ceremony?
A family member or friend can stand in at the ceremony as a proxy for the absent godparent, but the godparent’s name will appear on the baptismal certificate.