Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament of Christian initiation. By water and the Holy Spirit, Baptism brings forgiveness of all sins, adoption as children of God, and incorporation into Christ and the Church. Baptism is ordinarily conferred by a priest or deacon by pouring water on the head of the one being baptized (called the candidate) three times, while saying the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
Membership
At least one parent or guardian must be a registered member of St. Ambrose Parish for a minimum of three months before requesting baptism for their child.
Not a member yet? Please contact the Parish Office at (123) 456-7890 or office@stambrose.org to register.
Preparation
All parents and godparents must attend a baptism preparation class before the baptism. Classes are held monthly. Please contact the Parish Office to schedule your class.
Guidelines
Godparents
Choosing godparents is an important decision. The Code of Canon Law sets the qualifications for godparents:
- A godparent must be at least 16 years of age.
- A godparent must be a fully initiated Catholic who has received all three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation.
- If married, a godparent must be in a marriage recognized by the Catholic Church (either married in the Catholic Church or had their civil marriage blessed by the Church).
- A godparent who is a member of another parish must provide a sponsor certificate (letter of good standing) from their pastor.
- Christian witnesses (baptized non-Catholics) may serve alongside a Catholic godparent but cannot be the sole sponsor.
Required Documents
Please provide the following documentation:
- Child's birth certificate (or hospital certificate of birth)
- Proof of parish membership (for parents)
- Certificate of completion for baptism preparation class
- Sponsor certificate(s) from godparents' parishes (if applicable)
Baptisms are typically celebrated on the second and fourth Sundays of each month following the 11:00 AM Mass. Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing.
Baptism Registration Form
"*" indicates required fields
" Being involved with Saint Ambrose makes a lot of sense. It's a way to work together and support our community. For me it is the right thing to do and when you do the right thing, the rest follows. Saint Ambrose has been a good partner for my company and is good for our community.
Roger Nair
Owner-President of NLCI, Owner-President of NEO Group/ Keller-Williams Realty