Baptism

“Baptism is the best gift we have received. Through it, we belong to God and we possess the joy of salvation.”

Pope Francis

At Riverview Catholics, we want to help you make your child’s baptism a meaningful event. We hope that you will receive the information in a spirit of openness and reverence as you prepare to have your child receive the first Sacrament of Initiation of the Catholic Church. We expect the parents and Godparents to be active participants in the baptismal rite.

Requirements

Parents

Godparents

  • The mother or father must be a fully initiated Catholic (baptized and confirmed) and an active member of Christ the King, Holy Cross – Immaculata, St. Stephen, St. Rose, or another parish in good standing.
    • Active members of the parish:
      • Properly registered at the parish
      • Actively participates in Mass each week and Holy Days of Obligation
      • Regularly participate in the sacramental life of the Church 
      • Supports their Parish financially 
      • Shares their talent within the parish community 
  • Parents that are not parishioners of Christ the King, Holy Cross – Immaculata, St. Stephen, or St. Rose must obtain a letter from the Pastor of their parish giving permission for the baptism to occur at the desired parish. The statement must confirm that the parent(s) are in good standing with the parish. Permission must be submitted prior to baptism date confirmation.
  • One male and one female
  • At least 1 godparent must be Catholic and in good standing*:
  • Confirmed in the Catholic Faith
  • is at least 16 years of age
  • attends Mass regularly
  • is an active member of a parish
  • faithfully practices and believes the Catholic Faith
    • *Godparents must complete the “Godparent Statement” form. Catholic Godparents must have their statement signed and sealed by their pastor. After the Godparent forms are received by the appropriate parish office, the Baptism will be scheduled.

Baptism Preparation Class

Baptism Preparation classes (required of all parents having their first child baptized) will explain the Baptism ritual and symbols, review qualifications for godparents and suggest methods for passing on the faith to their children. 

For parishioners of Riverview Catholics parishes, classes are held on the second Wednesday of the month via Zoom at 7:30 pm. Contact Emily Daley to register.
For those who are not parishioners in the Riverview Catholics Family of Parishes: Baptismal Prep can be accomplished at the parent’s parish. Send a “notice of completion” to the appropriate parish office prior to the baptism.

Registration Form

Complete the Baptism Registration form for the appropriate parish:
Christ the King
Holy Cross – Immaculata
St. Stephen
St. Rose

Statement of Godparent for Baptism Form

Statement of Godparent for Baptism (complete this if you are Catholic)
Statement of Christian Faith (complete this form if you are Christian, but not Catholic, and will act as a Christian Witness for Baptism.)