Baptism is the Sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can believe. (CCC 1253).
For Infants (children 6 years of age or younger)
At St. John the Apostle, we celebrate Infant Baptisms as a communal celebration during our regular scheduled Sunday Masses (except during Lent). A maximum of two (2) infant baptisms can be scheduled for each mass. *Beginning July 1, 2018 we will no longer celebrate Infant Baptisms on Saturdays.
Parents and Godparents must attend a baptism preparation class which is offered in English on the first Thursday of the month, and in Spanish on the second Thursday of the month (child care is not provided.) You MUST register for the class and pay the $10.00 materials fee prior to the class.
For School-Age Children (ages 7 - 17)
Preparing for Baptism is part of the Rite of Christian Initiation. This two-year program focuses on understanding the Catholic Faith and specific instruction leading to the reception of the Sacraments. Please click here for more information!
For Adults (ages 18 & older)
Preparing for Baptism is part of Rite of Christian Initiation focusing on providing the necessary faith formation to become Disciples of Christ. Please click here to learn more!
Guidelines for Sponsors and Godparents
There may only be one male sponsor/Godparent or one female sponsor/Godparent or one of each. The sponsor/Godparent cannot be the father or mother of the child(ren) being baptized. The sponsor/Godparent must:
Be age 16 or older
Be a fully initiated Catholic. (They have received Baptism, First Communion & Confirmation.)
Lead a life of faith which includes: Marriage within the Church, attending Mass regularly, a life free of public scandal, and etc.