Baptism
Baptism is the gateway to life in the Spirit. It is the means through which we gain access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God. By baptism we become members of Christ and his church.
The Diocese of Greensburg has official qualifications of baptism sponsors, as well as the appropriate number of sponsors required. Our parish looks forward to working with you as you prepare for your child’s baptism. It is never too early to contact our parish office at 724-463-2277 to start the necessary paperwork.
Keep in mind that there are several important steps you must take before the baptism:
- Call the parish office as soon as possible to begin the necessary paperwork for your child’s baptism, and to determine whether or not you need to register and attend a baptismal preparation session.
- Attend the baptismal preparation session (if required).
- Review our parish guidelines about selecting godparents/sponsors, and their eligibility requirements.
- Determine whether or not the individual(s) you want to be your child’s sponsor(s) meet the eligibility guidelines. Do not hesitate to contact our parish office to assist you if you have any question or concerns about the eligibility of sponsors.
- Have the sponsor(s) obtain a sponsor certificate from their parish.
Qualifications of Baptism Sponsors
- Be designated by the candidate, by the parents or guardians, or the pastor.
- Have the qualifications and intention of performing the role of sponsor.
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Be a fully initiated Catholic (received baptism, confirmation and Eucharist).
- Lead a life in harmony with the faith and role of a sponsor (i.e., be a member of a parish, attend Mass on Sundays and holy days, not be in an irregular marriage, etc.).
- Not be bound by a canonical penalty.
- Not be the father or mother of the one to be baptized.
Our diocese continues the practice of requiring proof of eligibility for sponsorship (in accord with the qualifications above) from the parish in which the sponsor is registered.
The Number of Sponsors
- Only one sponsor is required for baptism.
- If, two sponsors are chosen one must be male and the other female.
- The second sponsor may be a Christian Witness (i.e., a non-Catholic Christian may fulfill this role).
In the event that neither the candidate, nor the parents or guardians select a sponsor, pastors may appoint a member of the parish community to fill the role of sponsor. Many parents are often concerned that they cannot find a suitable sponsor for a variety of reasons (i.e., unavailability of family members, being new to the area or unfamiliar with parishioners, etc.).
In such cases, pastors have the responsibility of assisting parents and candidates in the selection of a parishioner to be a sponsor.
Scheduling
Our parish celebrates the sacrament of baptism during Mass on the first and third Sundays of the month, this includes the Saturday anticipation Mass.
To celebrate the sacrament of baptism outside of Mass, please contact the parish office at 724-463-2277.
Infant Baptism Preparation
Expectant or new parents meet in small groups with a preparation couple, or team, to discuss the role of parents in raising children in the faith of the church; the meaning and celebration of infant baptism; and ways in which the parish can assist parents in their role as the first catechists of their children.
To register for a baptism preparation class, or if you have any questions, please contact the parish office at 724-463-2277.