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.
Click here to download a pdf file of the Baptism Registration Form
General Information for Baptisms at St. Paul Catholic Newman Center
When are Baptisms celebrated at St. Paul Catholic Newman Center?
Baptisms (maximum of two) are celebrated monthly at either the 9:00AM or 11:00AM Sunday Mass. There is also a monthly baptismal service following the 11:00AM Sunday Mass. Please see our calendar as the schedule varies. Please note: There are no Baptisms during Lent.
What do we need to do to have our child baptized?
Prior to scheduling a time and date for Baptism, parents must:
- be registered members of St. Paul Catholic Newman Center at least six months or provide a letter of permission from the pastor of the child's geographical church
- complete the baptism registration form
- provide a copy of the birth certificate
- pay the $40 registration fee
- participate in a baptism preparation class within the last two years and provide written proof of attendance - this class may attended at any parish
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 (provide letter from their parish/parishes)
- must be married in the Catholic Church (provide a certificate of Marriage)
- must provide copy of Confirmation certificate
- must attend a baptism preparation class within the last two years
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 as a Godparent.
What should we know about the ceremony?
For baptisms during the Mass:
- Please arrive at least 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 (12:30PM):
- Please congregate in the Community Room immediately following the 11:00AM Mass. The presider will meet with you there.
More 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 wear clothe their children garment or a white baptismal stole for the ceremony.
- The customary donation for a baptism is $40 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.
- Please contact Jenna 436-3434 or jenna@csufnewman.com to sign up for the baptism preparation class or if you have any questions.
These guidelines are designed to insure that the Sacrament of Baptism is fully appreciated by the parents, godparents, and all who are participating in your celebration. Please note: All required documentation must be received at least two weeks prior to the scheduled baptism or your child’s baptism will be postponed.
Baptism Preparation Classes are held at 2:00pm in the Cafeteria
Upcoming Class Dates:
June 9, 2013
July - No Class
August 11, 2013
September 8, 2013
October 13, 2013
November 10, 2013
December 8, 2013
January 12, 2014
February 9, 2014
March- No Class
April 13, 2014
May 18, 2014
June 8, 2014
July- No Class
Baptism Ceremony Dates:
May 26, 2013 during the 11:00AM Mass
June 16, 2013 during the 9:00AM Mass
June 23, 2013 at 12:30PM
July 21, 2013 during the 11:00AM Mass