Infant Baptism

The parish family of Holy Cross is happy you have chosen to have your child baptized. In the waters of baptism, we become members of the Body of Christ- God’s People; we are configured to Jesus Christ the High Priest and share in his prophetic, kingly, and priestly mission; original sin is remitted. Baptism is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation.  The other two are Confirmation and Eucharist.  If, after reading this page, you desire to have your child baptized in our parish, or you have additional questions, call the parish office.

Why do the parents and Godparents have to attend a preparation class and Faith Formation?

Before the celebration of baptism, the parents have to be registered members of either of the parish. Then, the Church expects parents and sponsors to be informed in the meaning of the Sacrament as well as its responsibilities (Canon 851). Holy Cross offers preparation sessions on an appointment basis with the Pastor.

The role of the sponsor (Godparent) is, “together with the parent and infant at baptism, and… help the baptized to lead a Christian life in harmony with baptism, and to fulfill faithfully the obligations connected with it” (Canon 872). One sponsor, male or female, is sufficient; but there may be two; one of each sex (Canon 873). Sponsors must: be at least sixteen (16) years of age, “be a Catholic who has been confirmed and has already received the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and leads a life in harmony with the faith and role to be undertaken” and “not be the father or mother of the child being baptized” (Canon 874). Sponsors must be Catholic: “a baptized person who belongs to a non- Catholic ecclesial community may not be admitted except as a witness to baptism and together with a Catholic sponsor” (Canon 874.2).

Families desiring to have a child baptized at Holy Cross may pick up an information packet and Baptism Application from the parish office or download one below. These are to be completed by the parents and the Sponsor/Godparent Forms signed in the sponsor’s own parish. As soon as the paperwork is completed take it to the parish office and then a date may be reserved for the Baptism in the parish office.