"Are you unaware that we who were baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death. We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life." Rom 6:3-4

Baptism is the first Sacrament of Inititiation in the church, through which we die to our old selves, and sin, and rise out of the waters into a new life in Christ Jesus. In the symbols of WATER, FIRE, OILS and WHITE CLOTHING the living God comes upon the one Baptised and claims them for God's own. God saids "This is my beloved child in whom I am well pleased." They are forever marked as children of God and heirs to the kingdom.

For further information regarding the Sacrament of Baptism please contact Tony Deosdade.

1. If you are a Parent or Godparent and the Baptism WIIL NOT be at St. Francis and you plan on atending a Baptism class at St. Francis of Assisi please complete the following form.

2. If you are a Parent or Godparent and the Baptism WILL be at St. Francis and you plan on attending a Baptism class at St. Francis please complete the following form.

• Remember, we will need a copy of the child's birth certificate.

• If your child is seven (7) years of age or older, please contact Tony Deosdade concerning Baptism.

• Each sponsor (godparent) must print and complete a sponsor form.

• The Baptism walkthrough instructions for Parents and Godparents are now available for you to view and print out online.

Here are the duties and qualifications for Baptism Sponsors (God-parents):

1. sponsor; together with parents
   • present the infant at baptism
   • help the baptized to lead a Christian life in harmony with baptism, and
   • help the baptized fulfill faithfully the obligations connected with Baptism
2. sponsor alternatives
   • one male sponsor, or
   • one female sponsor, or
   • one male and one female sponsor
3. qualifications of sponsor(s)
   • nominated by parents or pastor
   • has the qualifications for the role
   • at least 16 years of age
   • is a Catholic who
     • has been confirmed, and
     • has already received the sacrament of the Eucharist, and
     • leads a life in harmony with the faith, and
     • leads a life in harmony with the role to be undertaken
4. baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community may be a witness to baptism together with a Catholic sponsor.