The Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the foundation of Christian life and the gateway to the Church’s other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, and made members of Christ and His Church.
At Saint Matthew Catholic Church, we are honored to help families prepare for this beautiful sacrament and welcome their children into the life of the Church.
Scheduling a Baptism
Families should contact the parish office at least three months in advance to begin planning for Baptism.
Please do not make formal arrangements or plans until a Baptism date has been confirmed through the parish office.
Baptism Schedule
Baptisms in English
Infant Baptisms for English-speaking parishioners are celebrated after the 12:00 PM Sunday Mass on the second and last Sunday of each month.
Baptisms in Spanish
Infant Baptisms for Spanish-speaking parishioners are celebrated after the 12:00 PM Sunday Mass on the first Sunday of each month.
Given a reasonable assurance that the child will be raised in the Catholic faith, any child, at any age, is welcome to be baptized.
Parent Requirements
If you are a local resident, the parent or parents are required to register as parishioners of Saint Matthew Catholic Church.
If the parents are former Saint Matthew parishioners but are currently registered at another parish, a letter of permission from the pastor of their current parish is required.
Parents must attend a Baptismal Preparation Class if they have not attended one within the past three years. This preparation is required under Canon Law.
All Baptisms at Saint Matthew are ordinarily celebrated by the pastor, or by a deacon or priest delegated by him.
Special Circumstances
If one parent is not Catholic, or if the parents are not married, separated, or estranged, permission from both parents is required.
In cases of separation or estrangement, a written and notarized letter of permission from the other parent is mandatory before the child may be baptized.
Sponsors / Godparents
A sponsor, also known as a godparent, is called to be a witness, inspiration, and example of how a Catholic should live in today’s world. Godparents are entrusted with the responsibility of being active participants in the life of the Church and in the faith life of the person they are sponsoring.
Through prayer, faithful participation in weekly Mass, and living the values of the Gospel, godparents help pass on the Catholic faith.
Godparent Requirements
At least one godparent must be an active, practicing Catholic who:
- Has been baptized
- Has received Confirmation
- Actively participates in the life of the Church
- Is able to provide a sealed sponsor letter from the parish where they are registered
The sponsor letter must attest to the person’s eligibility to serve as a godparent. It is the responsibility of the godparent’s parish to verify that they are an active and practicing Catholic.
A second godparent may be a baptized non-Catholic Christian. In this case, the person is designated as a Christian Witness.
You may have one or two godparents. If there are two, they must be one male and one female.
Please note that many parishes use offertory envelopes and other forms of participation to help determine whether someone is active in parish life. Please do not assume that a parish will automatically provide a sponsor letter without being able to confirm attendance, support, and participation.
Begin the Baptism Process
To begin planning a Baptism, please contact the parish office at least three months before your desired date.