Baptism INFANT BAPTISM One of the greatest joys of parents is the privilege of seeing "eternal light shine on their children" at the time of their baptism. That is why, "As soon as possible after the birth, indeed even before it, parents are to approach the parish priest to ask for the sacrament for their child, and to be themselves duly prepared for it." (Canon 865) Baptisms take place during the weekend Eucharistic liturgies, so that the entire community of faith can celebrate this sacred moment with the parents and other relatives of the child. PARENT SESSIONS: Parents prepare to celebrate the baptism of their children by participating in an initial interview with one of the priests, followed by four instructional meetings. These sessions are usually on weeknights, and are scheduled at the time of the interview. To begin the process, call the Pastoral Center at 846-3369. SPONSORS (GODPARENTS): Canon law (Canons 872-874) requires one sponsor, although two (and no more than two) are allowed, one male and one female. "In infant baptism, the role of the sponsor is together with the parents to present the child for baptism, and to help it to live a Christian life befitting the baptized and faithfully to fulfill the duties inherent in baptism." "To be admitted to undertake the office of sponsor, a person must: Be appointed by … the parents…; the person must be suitable for this role and have the intention of fulfilling it. Be not less than 16 years of age, unless a different age has been stipulated by the Diocesan bishop…; Be a Catholic who has been confirmed (has received the sacrament of Confirmation) and has received the blessed Eucharist, and who lives a life of faith which befits the role to be undertaken; Not labor under a canonical penalty; Not be either the father or the mother of the person to be baptized.   Among other things, these regulations mean that if a sponsor/godparent is married, he or she must be married in the Roman Catholic Church. They also imply that for a sponsor you want someone who attends Mass and receives Communion at least weekly, and who is active in the Church.   "A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community may be admitted only in company with a Catholic sponsor, and then simply as a witness to the baptism."   Sponsors are invited to attend the preparation sessions with the parents; they are required to attend at least the fourth session. Sponsors who live out of town need to provide a letter of approval from their pastor indicating their good standing and proper preparation.   CONCERNING NAMES: Canon 855 states that "Parents, sponsors and parish priests are to take care that a name is not given which is foreign to Christian sentiment." Parents are encouraged to choose the name of a saint for their child. Books with the names of saints are available at the Pastoral Center for parents during the pregnancy to choose a suitable name.   SUGGESTED OFFERING: $25.00     ADULT BAPTISM: see section on OCIA.