Baptism Guidelines
Your child's Baptism is a time for celebration and joy. Here at the Assumption Parish community we want to help you to prepare for this special day. Here are some guidelines that will be of assistance:
1) The Baptism is celebrated in the Church with family and friends.
2) The parents and Godparents are required to attend a Baptismal Preparation class. If the Godparents are from another parish, a letter of permission from their pastor is required.
3) You will need to choose Godparents for your child. Godparents must be adults who have received confirmation and are practicing Catholics. At least one Godparent must be a Catholic. Along with the parents, Godparents present the child to the Church for Baptism and speak in their name. You need to choose Godparents with great care because they will share with you the responsibility and honor of helping your child to grow in the Catholic faith.
4) You may choose the date and time for celebration of Baptism by calling the parish office.
5) Please present a copy of the child's birth certificate and Baptism application to the office. This information is recorded in the Parish Baptismal Register. In the years ahead, proof of Baptism may be obtained for your child's confirmation, marriage or ordination on the basis of this information.
6) It is recommended that your child is dressed in white. The white garment is a sign of innocence and the new life of resurrection.
7) It is customary to make a Baptismal offering to the Church. The customary offering is $40.00 and may be made to the parish office with your application or to the Priest/Deacon after the ceremony.
By having your child baptized, you recognize the importance of God in your life. The Church recognizes the desire of parents to share the life of Christ with their children.
Your efforts will not only help your child to grow up in the love of God: they will also help you to grow. As you teach your child to pray, you yourself will deepen your prayer; as you teach your child to appreciate the Mass your own faith will be enriched. Your child's baptism is only the beginning of a new life in which you will grow closer to one another in the family and closer to God.
The Assumption Parish community welcomes your child into its midst with love and prayers for the future peace and happiness of your family in the years ahead.
