Baptism
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We recognize a child’s baptism is an exciting time for parents, godparents, and families. In preparation for this special Sacrament of Initiation, parents are invited to learn about the Rite of Baptism.
Baptism Schedule
Baptisms are held after the 11 AM Sunday Mass. To schedule the date and time of your child’s Baptism, call the parish office at (262) 796-3940.
Baptism Conference
Parish members of wishing to have their child baptized must attend a Baptism Conference preparation session.
* Parents should attend the Baptism Conference prior to the birth of the child.
The Baptism Conference is held once every month. It covers:- Theology of Baptism
- Role of Godparents/Sponsors
- Explanations of the Rite
Both parents are expected to attend the class unless an exemption is requested and approved*. To register for the Baptism Conference, you should contact the SJV Parish Office to complete the Baptism Registration Form and select a convenient conference date for both parents. A $10 fee is collected for conference materials.
* Parents who have attended a Baptism Conference within the past two years may receive an exception from this requirement. -
The Role of Godparents in Baptism
Godparents are meant to play a very important role in your child’s spiritual life. They serve as significant role models of our faith. The child should be able to look to his/her godparents as examples of how the church teaches us to live our Catholic faith. Godparents should also support not only the child but the parents as well. Additionally, in their roles as godparents, they represent the larger Church community. Therefore, being a godparent is not only an honor but also a tremendous responsibility. Godparents should be carefully chosen.
In recognizing the importance of the godparents and their duties, the Catholic Church has provided guidelines to help parents choose the best possible godparents for their children.
Selecting Godparents:- The godparent is at least 16 years old and mature enough to understand, accept and carry out the duties of a godparent.
- Must have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation in the Catholic faith.
- Must be living an exemplary life consistent with faith and morals as taught by the Roman Catholic Church.
- Must be actively practicing the faith by attending Mass and receiving sacraments.
More on Selecting Godparents:- A non-Catholic baptized Christian may be chosen as a Christian Witness, as long as one godparent is Catholic.
- If two godparents are chosen, they may not be of the same gender.
- There may be no more than two godparents. If both are Catholic, they must both meet all the above criteria for a Roman Catholic godparent.
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