Sacrament of Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and are reborn as sons and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."
Catechism of the Catholic Church (1213)
Infant Baptism Policy at St. Monica
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first of the three sacraments of initiation in the Catholic Church. We are very happy to assist you and accompany your family in preparing for this wonderful celebration for your child.
PREPARATION CLASSES
Parents must attend a baptism preparation class. The purpose of these classes is to convey an understanding of baptism in the Church, to help parents recognize their responsibility and role in the development of their child’s faith, and to welcome young families into our parish family. Godparents are also encouraged to attend.
Baptism classes are normally held the first Saturday of the month in English and the second Saturday of the month in Spanish. Call the office to sign up for classes
BAPTISMAL REQUIREMENTS
- Children from the age of six will follow Infant Baptism guidelines; if the child is seven years old or older, he or she will particiapte in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults - adapted for children.
- Parents must set-up a brief interview ; call 210-658-3816 to schedule or use "Request Baptism Form" on this page
- A copy of the child's state-issued birth certificate is required upon meeting with the Priest or Deacon
- If parents and child are not members of St. Monica and are registered in another parish, we must obtain a Letter of Permission from their pastor in order for us to proceed with the baptism.
-
If parents have taken baptismal classes at any parish other than this one, they must provide proof of attendance by either in a certificate of attendance or a letter from that church’s pastor.
REQUIREMENTS FOR GODPARENTS
- Must be at least 16 years of age.
- At least one godparent is needed; a fully initiated (having received Baptism, First Communion and Confirmation), practicing Catholic, registered in a parish. There may be two godparents, one man and one woman; both must be fully initiated practicing Catholics. If they are not members of this parish they must obtain a letter of Good Standing from their home parish. As long as there is one godparent who is a fully initiated practicing Catholic, a baptized practicing non-Catholic Christian can be designated as a Christian Witness to the baptism. In this case, a letter from the Christian Witness’s pastor is necessary, stating that they are in good standing in his or her church.
- Must be someone other than the parents of the child to be baptized.
- Must be leading a life in harmony with the Catholic faith and the role they are about to assume.
- Godparents who attend baptismal preparation classes in other parishes must provide an official letter of attendance.
- Godparents can be represented by a proxy if unable to attend the ceremony.
