The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that…
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God… (No 1213)
Because this sacrament is the celebration of one’s entry into God’s new life within a particular community, we ask that all people seeking baptism for their children be active members of St. Catherine’s community. At least one of the parents must be catholic. As a rule, we require that families be registered at least three months before the celebration of the sacrament of Baptism. Not registered yet? Please follow this link: https://stcatherine.org/join-st-catherines-community/
Baptism preparation classes at St. Catherine of Siena are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 7:00 pm. We provide the basic teachings of the church emphasizing the importance of the child’s parents in raising their child in the fullness of the life Christ has given us. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend the classes before the birth of the child, if possible. You must register to attend. Contact Cathy at 972-492-3237 ext. 112 or email czuvic@stcatherine.org.
For Parents:
- Registered parents complete and submit the provided form along with a copy of the child’s birth certificate (one form per child). If the child is adopted, copies of the decree are accepted.
- Parents must participate in a parish-provided program (not online) that leads them to understand their role as “first teachers of their child in the ways of faith.” Proof of the parents’ preparation needs to be provided.
- Parents meet with the pastor after completion of all the requirements. Fr. Ignatius is mostly available Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:30am – 11:30am and 1pm – 5pm; and Friday from 9:30am – 11:30am.
For Godparent(s):
Only one godparent is required, but two are acceptable. The godparent may not be protestant or any other denomination than Catholic, but he/she can be a witness when married to the Catholic godfather/mother.
Additionally:
- Godparent(s) can attend Baptismal Preparation at the nearest parish (not online). Proof of the godparent(s) preparation needs to be provided.
- We need:
- A Letter of Good Standing from their Parish stating that at the present time, they are parishioners in good standing. The letter assures the requestion partish that the person recommended is serious about his or her Catholic Faith and will share that faith with the one to be baptized.
- A certificate copy of the godparent’s sacrament of Confirmation.
- The godparent:
- Must be at least 16 years of age
- Must belong to the Catholic Church and have been fully initiated in the Church by receiving the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
- The godparent must be a practicing Catholic able to validly receive the sacrament of Holy Eucharist.
- If married, must be validly married in the Catholic Church.
- May not be the parent of the child to be Baptized
- Should be someone who will continue to have influence on your child’s religious formation through the years.
The “Letter of Good Standing”:
A Catholic in “Good Standing” means that person attends Holy Mass regularly, and if married, were married in the Catholic Church. The purpose of a Letter of Good Standing is to show that we value the example and commitment of godparents and sponsors, and it is hypocritical to stand up for someone when you either do not believe or practice what you profess. The letter assures the requesting parish that the person recommended is serious about his or her Catholic faith and will share that faith with the one to be baptized. The letter can be sent to St. Catherine of Siena, 1705 E. Peters Colony Rd., Carrollton TX 75007 or via email to czuvic@stcatherine.org from their parish.
Baptisms are every weekend of the month except during Lent. For available dates and time, please contact call (972) 492-3237.