1. You must meet with the Pastor/Deacon before setting the date or time of the baptism.
2. If you are inviting an outside priest to perform the baptism, you must check with the Pastor at the time you book the baptism for St. Joseph Church.
3. A donation may be made to the officiating Priest/Deacon. Any amount would be greatly appreciated.
4. Turn in a copy of the official state birth certificate (Not the hospital certificate) to the office at least one week prior to the baptism along with the sponsors names. If you would like your child’s photo on the certificate please send a picture in jpeg format or a hard copy.
5. Couples and sponsors are required to attend a Baptismal class with the Pastor prior to the baptism unless they have been a sponsor/attended a class within the last 3 years. A letter from the church where they attended the Baptismal class must be turned in at least one week prior to the baptism.
6. Reguirements of Godparents for Baptism
a. At least one of the godparents is required to be a practicing Catholic.
b. Godparents are to be at least 16 years of age and not a parent of the person to be baptized.
c. Godparents must be practicing Catholics who have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation and whose lives give evidence of their religious commitment.
d. One Catholic godparent, male or female is sufficient; but there may be two, one male and one female.
e. A baptized person who is a non-Catholic may not serve as a godparent but may act as a Christian witness.
7. The following guidelines concerning behavior and dress should be strictly adhered to:
a. Respectful behavior and dress in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament is required at all times. b. Speak at a low voice level during the baptism/photo sessions.
8. Photographs are allowed during the baptism. Please remind your photographer that this is a Church and respectful behavior is required at all times when pictures are being taken.
Yours in Christ,
Father Barnabas Kyeah
Parochial Administrator, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Inez