Parents and Godparents who present the children for baptism

1. Parents and godparents have the right and obligation to be instructed in their responsibilities as well as prepared for the celebration of Baptism.
2. The ordinary place for baptism is in the parish church of the parents.
3. At least one parent or legal guardian must request that the child be baptized.
4. There must be a grounded hope that the child baptized will be raised in the Catholic faith.
5. To ensure the parents have been participating in the life of the parish they will be asked to document their participation in at least 8 Masses before requesting a date for baptism. These forms will be provided at the front office, during their baptism class, or online below.
6. At least one Godparent must be a baptized Catholic in good standing with at least 16 years of age, who has received Baptism and Confirmation and regularly attends Mass. Godparents from the parish should take the baptismal preparation class – if possible with the parents of the child to be baptized. Godparents from outside the parish are asked to provide a letter stating that they have completed the requirements in their parish and are in good standing (the sacrament of matrimony is expected if they are a couple.)
7. Godparents will also need to show proof of a Baptismal preparation class.

Preparation of Parents and Godparents

1. Parents and Godparents need to attend the Baptismal Preparation classes before their child is baptized. The purpose of the sessions is to:
   • Welcome families to their faith community
   • Educate parents and godparents about the history, meaning, and symbolism of the Sacrament of baptism in the Catholic Church
   • Acquaint the parents and godparents with the rituals of the ceremony
   • Encourage parents and godparents to be actively involved in their faith community
   • Involve parents and godparents in a reflection on the presence of God in their lives
   • Educate godparents and parents in their responsibilities as role models to the child
   • Educate godparents on how they represent the parish.
2. Baptism Preparation parents need to call the parish office at (503) 644-2619 x174 to schedule a session. Additional or alternative times will be communicated in the bulletin or can be known by contacting Jennelle or María in the front office.
3. Parents and godparents may attend the Baptismal preparation sessions at another Catholic church, however, a letter of attendance and permission to have the baptism at St. Cecilia is needed before a baptism date is scheduled.

The Sacrament of Baptism

1. Baptisms are typically held at 2:30 PM on Saturdays. Before planning a baptismal date, however, the date and time need to be confirmed through the parish office.
2. Exceptions to the typical dates are for exceptional circumstances and only with approval by the Pastor. Exceptions may include such things as serious illness, military deployments, and emergencies. Exceptions will not be made for such things as accommodating the presence of Godparents or family members since stand-ins can easily provide that role and subsequent months are available if needed.
3. Families are encouraged to have family and friends celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism with their child. All should be present at least 20 minutes before the baptisms.

Baptismal Paperwork

1. The presenter of the baptism class will provide you with the necessary forms to fill out. Please make sure they are filled out correctly and legibly and returned to the office with the date you wish to reserve. If you wish to change or add your child to a new baptismal date, please inform the parish office no later than one week before the new baptismal date so the certificates can be made ready for the date of your choosing.
2. After your class, you will receive a certificate of completion with a parish seal on it. This must be presented to Rossana at the front office along with any other required forms.