Thank you for inquiring about baptizing your child at St. Paul Catholic Newman Center. It is our hope that both you and the godparents will make a strong commitment to live out the Catholic faith that you will be teaching your child. This means making a commitment to attend Mass, receiving the Sacraments, and providing the kind of spiritual upbringing that will help your child become a strong and mature Catholic Christian.
Children between the ages of 7 and 17 needing the sacrament of Baptism may participate in a specialized sacramental preparation program. Please contact the Parish Office at 436-3434 for more information.
Baptism Information
What do we need to do to have our child baptized?
Prior to scheduling a time and date for Baptism, parents must:
Be Practicing Catholics (at least one). If not registered at the Newman Center, they must provide a letter from the pastor of their parish
Complete the Baptism registration form
Provide a copy of their child's birth certificate
Pay the $50 registration fee
Both parents are to participate in a baptism preparation class within the last four years and provide written proof of attendance - this class may be attended at any parish if it is in person. Please contact the office if you would like to attend our baptism preparation class (the fee is $15 per person). Please note that online Baptism Preparation classes outside of the one we offer must be approved by our parish before taking them.
These guidelines are designed to ensure that the Sacrament of Baptism is fully appreciated by the parents, godparents, and all who are participating in your celebration.
Baptisms will not be scheduled until you have contacted our Baptism Coordinator. Registration must be done within two weeks of the desired date. All required paperwork must be submitted at the time of registration to guarantee a date. For any questions, please contact parish office at (559) 436-3434.
Whom should we choose as Godparents?
Choose relatives or friends who you feel will:
Serve as Christian models for your child
Help you in your duties as Christian parents
Witness their faith at the baptism and beyond
Requirements for Godparents
Must be Practicing Catholics (must fill out out our Baptism Sponsor form and have it signed by their pastor. Please see the form in the section below titled "Baptism Sponsor Form")
Must be married in the Catholic Church (provide a certificate of Marriage)
Must provide copy of their Confirmation certificate
Must attend a Baptism preparation class within the last four years and provide written proof of attendance - may attend at any parish.
Most parents choose two Godparents; however, only one is required. If you choose only one, you may also choose a Christian witness (must also attend the baptism preparation class) to support you and your child’s faith development.
You may choose a proxy for the ceremony if a Godparent cannot attend. Same requirements apply as a Godparent.
Ceremony Information
For baptisms during the Mass
- Please arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins. Parents, child, godparents, and siblings should be seated in the first few rows on the west side of the Chapel. “Reserved” signs will be on the seat at the end of the row.
For baptisms outside of Mass (12:45PM)
- Please congregate in the front of the Chapel after the 11:30AM Mass. The presider will meet with you there.
Additional Information:
You will receive a baptismal candle during the ceremony. If you prefer, you may bring a candle which you have purchased.
Parents are encouraged to clothe their children in a white garment or a white baptismal stole for the ceremony.
The customary donation for a baptism is $50 which should be presented at the time of registration.
Any offering to the priest or deacon should be given directly to him at the baptism.
