FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions

    Who can receive the Sacrament of Baptism?  Infants and children through age 7 can receive the Sacrament.  Older persons should apply through the Rite of Christian Initiation.

    Who can be a Godparent?  A Godparent must be a Roman Catholic, age 16 or over, who has received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.

    How many Godparents are required?  Only one Godparent is required, but if two are selected, one must be a man and the other a woman.

    Must the Godparents be present at the ceremony?  If a Godparent is unable to be present, a proxy can stand in, but must meet the requirements as the Godparent.

    Must I be a member of the St. Frances de Chantal to have my child baptized in this parish?  St. Frances parish is happy to confer the Sacrament of Baptism on all eligible persons regardless of their community of residence.  However, if you are a member of the St. Frances parish community, you are encouraged to register in the parish.

    Is there a fee for the Baptismal Ceremony?  No fee is charged.  However donations to the parish are accepted and appreciated.

    When does the Baptismal Ceremony take place?  The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on most Sundays at 1:30 pm (no Baptisms during Lent) or, by arrangement, as part of a weekend Mass on Saturday evening or Sunday.

    How long is the Ceremony?  The Ceremony takes approximately one hour, depending on the number of children to be baptized.  

    Will I be able to take pictures?  Yes, pictures and videos are permitted from the pew during the liturgy, at the font during the ceremony, and on the altar at the conclusion of the liturgy.

    What is the baptismal process?  The baptismal process consists of materials to be read at home, an intake meeting with the baptismal team, and a group meeting with team members and other parents.

    Who must attend the preparation meetings?  Parents must attend. Godparents are encouraged, but not required to attend.

    Can I bring my baby to these meetings?  Your baby is always welcome.  However many parents find it easier to participate in the sessions when baby is not with them.

    When should I begin the baptismal process?   You are welcome to begin the process during the later months of pregnancy or as soon as possible after the birth of the child.

    How do I begin the baptismal process?  You can begin the baptismal process by downloading the materials on the Sacrament of Baptism page of the St. Frances de Chantal website, or by  calling 516-785-2333.