Baptism

Baptism at St Ann’s Parish

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 reborn as sons 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” (CCC 1213)

We encourage our parish families to present their newborn infants for the Sacrament of Baptism soon after birth because this sacrament is the foundation of the Christian life. In Baptism the child, freed from original sin, becomes an heir to the Kingdom of God, receiving the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity and the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit.

Get started

1. Submit the Baptism Request Form AND Godparent Baptism Form to parishoffice@stannsabbotsford.ca 
   • Baptism Request Form
   • Godparent Baptism Form
2. Father will contact you to confirm dates for Baptism and Course (if required) 
3. Submit the Baptism Godparent Authorization form with a copy of godparent baptism certificate (1 week prior to baptism at the latest)
   • Baptism Godparent Authorization

Selecting Godparents

In order to undertake the office of godparent sponsor, each godparent needs to fulfill the basic requirements as stated in Church Law, namely:

1. the person must be at least 16 years or age
2. the person must have received Baptism, Holy Eucharist & Confirmation
3. the person must be at regularly practicing Roman Catholic (the godparent must have their pastor sign the form saying that they are practicing Catholics within their parish)
4. one godparent, male or female, is sufficient; but there may be two, one male and ones female.

Since a godparent needs to represent the Catholic faith community, a baptized Christian cannot be a godparent at a Catholic baptism but may be present as a Christian witness at the baptism.

Baptism Course

The Baptism course will review the rite of baptism and significance of baptism and responsibilities of parents and sponsors. First time parents are required to take this course. If parents has not been to any baptismal class it is important for them seek for one. It is recommended that Godparents also attend this Couse. The scheduling of the course is done with Father when Baptism date is booked.