“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.”
Baptism Information for Parents
Baptism Dates
Spanish Baptisms are held on the first three Saturdays, and fourth Sunday of every month at 3:00 pm. English Baptisms are held on the third Sunday of every month.
Parish boundaries
The Family of the child should reside in Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish boundaries. If a family lives outside the boundaries they may request and present a permission letter for baptism from their parish of residence. Families who are registered at another parish may still have their child baptized at Immaculate Heart. A letter of permission to baptize at our parish will also be required.
Baptism Information regarding Godparents
In order to be considered a godparent, a person must be 16 years of age and have received all three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist). If married, the marriage must be recognized by the Catholic Church. Catholics only married through court or living together with someone without being married through the Catholic Church, may NOT be god parents. We do require a copy of the Catholic Church Marriage Certificate. You may have two godparents, but at least one is required.
Baptismal Preparation Class
For every baptism celebrated at Immaculate Heart, both parents and sponsors are required to attend a pre baptismal class at Immaculate Heart or at another parish if they live out of the area (proof of attendance is also required).
If parents have attended a pre-baptismal class within the previous six months they are still encouraged but not required to attend another preparation class, as long as proof of the class is submitted. The preparation class for parents and godparents are held on the Tuesday before the baptism, at the church starting with the 7:00 pm mass. There is no need to pre-register for the class, however you are required to check in at the table outside the church 15-30 minutes before mass starts. If you do not check in, you will not be marked as if you attended.
For more information regarding baptisms at Immaculate Heart, please take a look at our document below.
