Baptism Helpful Hints

The Baptismal Candidate wears a white gown.

May we bring our other children to the Baptism Conference?
The Baptism Conference is an opportunity for adults to focus on and learn about the Rite of Baptism. We encourage you to make arrangements for other children so that you may concentrate on the celebration of this holy sacrament. Parents are encouraged to schedule the Baptism Conference prior to the child’s birth.

How soon after birth should I baptize my child?
Parents may select an appropriate time after the child’s birth to schedule the Baptism. Availability of godparents may influence scheduling.

How soon should we arrive at the church on Baptism Day?
In order to receive day-of instructions, parents, the child, and godparents should arrive at the church at least 20 minutes prior to the service. These individuals may gather in the Hospitality Room located along the right hallway upon entering the church.  Extended family are welcome to be seated near the baptism font.

Our Baptism is during Liturgy, when will the celebration occur?  
Pews will be reserved in the church near the baptismal font for the immediate family. Extended family are encouraged to arrive early so they may sit together.

The immediate family may gather in the Hospitality Room until Mass begins. Parents, Godparents, siblings and the child to be Baptized will enter with Father during the opening procession. The Baptisms occur after the Homily and before the Offeratory Gifts are brought forward.

What ways can our family participate in the Liturgy?
St. John Vianney Parish encourages whole community celebrations of Baptism and welcomes the members of our newest parish members to participate in the Liturgy. Family members, including godparents, are welcome to pre-register to bring up the offertory gifts. Family and friends are asked to participate fully in the liturgy by attentively listening to the readings, fervently praying and joyfully singing the hymns and liturgical responses. Parish members trained in their ministry may serve as lectors, servers, and/or ushers. Scheduling arrangements need to be made at least four weeks in advance of the Baptism. Contact the Parish office for more information.

What should my child wear?
A white Baptismal gown is customary worn to the Baptism. Clothing worn should be loose enough at the neck to allow anointing of the child's breast. If a hat is worn, it should be removed for the baptism.   Baptism by immersion is also available with the child wearing a swim diaper.

The parish will provide a white Baptismal bib and a candle. After the ceremony the candle and bib are yours to keep as a reminder of this joyous Sacrament. The candle can be burned on Baptismal anniversaries and when the child receives other Sacraments in the future.

What is expected of the godparents?
The parents select the child’s godparents following Church guidelines. Godparents serve a significant role and should attend the Baptism Rite. During the Rite, godparents are asked to bless the child, light and hold the candle and answer questions. If a godparent is unable to be present, a fully initiated Catholic proxy may be substituted.
 
Is there a fee to baptize my child?
There is no fee, however some families wish to offer a donation to the parish on the occasion of their child's Baptism.

Do we give Father or Deacon a stipend?
Although it is customary to offer a stipend to the person who officiates, it is not required. If your family wishes to extend this gesture of gratitude, it can be made within the context of personal financial ability.

When do I receive the Baptismal Certificate?
The baptism will be recorded in the permanent records of St. John Vianney Parish from the information you provide when selecting the Baptism date and time.   Please be sure name spellings and dates are accurate.

The baptism certificate is given to you following the baptism.  Later, when documentation of the baptism is requested (such as for other sacramental preparations) the information can be obtained from your certificate or St. John Vianney Parish’s records.