Baptism

“Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized 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.”
— Romans 6:3-4 NAB

What is Baptism?

Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation 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 Baptized and claims them for God’s own. God says “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) That person is forever marked as a child of God and heir to the kingdom.

Classes & Sponsors

Classes are required for parents and sponsors. We offer classes for those who plan to have their child baptized at St. Francis of Assisi Church, as well as for parishioners or those who live in our parish boundaries. We normally hold classes on the second Thursday of each month. Once you register for a class, you will receive a confirmation email detailing any payments that may be due; payments must be turned in to the parish office no later than one week before the baptism class. Deacon Johnny Flores organizes these classes.

How to Obtain a Baptism

Baptisms for children ages 6 years old and under can be scheduled only after the submission of all needed documents to the parish office and the completion of classes. Godparents must be living in accordance with the Catholic Faith.

*If your child is 7 years old or older, and needs the sacrament of Baptism, please contact Larry Perry at lperry@sfasat.org or call him at (210) 492 - 4600 ext.211.

Duties and Qualifications for Baptism Sponsors

Sponsor(s) together with parents:

  • present the infant at Baptism

  • help the baptized to lead a Christian life in harmony with Baptism, and

  • help the baptized faithfully fulfill the obligations connected with Baptism

Qualifications of sponsor(s):

  • nominated by parents or pastor

  • at least 16 years of age

  • is a Catholic who

    • has received the sacrament of Confirmation

    • has received the sacrament of the Eucharist

    • if married, is married through the Catholic Church

    • leads a life in harmony with the faith

    • leads a life in harmony with the role to be undertaken

A minimum of one sponsor is required. There can be no more than two sponsors. If there are two sponsors, one must be male and the other must be female. A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic Christian community may be a witness for Baptism, together with a Catholic sponsor.

Registration for Children to be Baptized at St. Francis of Assisi:

If you are a parent or sponsor and the Baptism will be at St. Francis, and you plan to attend a Baptism preparation class at St. Francis, please note the following:

  • A copy of the child’s birth certificate is required.

  • Each sponsor must print and complete the sponsor form below

  • Each sponsor must submit proof of confirmation and marriage in the Catholic Church (if applicable). The sponsor’s church of baptism should have these sacramental records available.

  • Baptism walk through instructions for parents and sponsors is available to print and read through below

  • NOTE: if there are less than 5 registered participants for any particular date the class will likely be rescheduled.

Registration for Children to be Baptized at Another Parish:

If you are a parent or sponsor and the child’s Baptism will NOT be at St. Francis, but you plan to attend a Baptism preparation class at St. Francis of Assisi, please register to take the class.  At the completion of the class you will be given a letter to give to the parish where the child is to be baptized.