Baptism

Baptism at St. John the Evangelist

“Baptism gives us new birth in Christ, makes us sharers in the mystery of his death and resurrection, grants the forgiveness of sin and brings us new freedom as God’s children and members of his Church.”   ~Pope Francis

Qualifications for Godparents

Being a Godparent is a sacred commitment to support your Godchild’s spiritual life. Church law requires at least one active, practicing Catholic Godparent (over 16, Confirmed, and, if married, in a Catholic marriage). The second may be a Baptized Christian of any faith. Godparents cannot be the child’s parents or legal guardians. Non-Catholic Christians may serve only as Christian Witnesses, alongside a Catholic Godparent. At least one Godparent must always be a practicing Catholic.

Being a Godparent is a sacred commitment to support your Godchild’s spiritual life. Church law requires at least one active, practicing Catholic Godparent (over 16, Confirmed, and, if married, in a Catholic marriage). The second may be a Baptized Christian of any faith. Godparents cannot be the child’s parents or legal guardians. Non-Catholic Christians may serve only as Christian Witnesses, alongside a Catholic Godparent. At least one Godparent must always be a practicing Catholic.

We understand.  Spiritual support often reaches us from a variety of relationships.  Those who are baptized Christians but who do not share the Catholic faith may sponsor a child as an official Christian Witness of the baptism, but only in conjunction with a Catholic Godparent that fulfills the above requirements.  Whether both are Catholic or one Catholic and one other Christian, both Godparents must be Baptized.  Remember, at least one Godparent must be an active, practicing Catholic:

Celebrating Baptism at St. John the Evangelist

In order to more fully assist families in the responsibilities  and gift of teaching their children to be disciples and to observe all that the Lord has commanded, our Baptism preparation begins with a personal conversation to discuss the beauty, the meaning, and grace of this first Sacrament of Initiation. We are looking forward to getting to know your family better and walking with you in this exciting time!

To reserve a time for that sacrament conversation, please call 517-784-0553 or email Angel.

Are you an adult and interested in knowing more about receiving baptism?  Let’s talk!  Todd or Angel would love to hear the story of your faith journey and provide the details on how you can move forward with baptism in the Catholic Church.

Documents for Baptismal Packet