Sacrament of Baptism

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.

Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213

Congratulations! Thank you for deciding to have your child baptized at our parish. We have several guidelines and procedures in place. You may begin the process as soon as you wish - no need to wait until the baby arrives. 

• At least one parent of the baby must be Catholic, registered at St. Leo's, and a practicing parishioner for at least three months.

• Parents must meet with the pastor (takes less than an hour) for a Baptismal Preparation session. It is desirable that both the parents and godparents be present.

• Baptisms are usually celebrated on a Saturday late morning or early afternoon. A second option is to have your child baptized on a Sunday after the 11:30 Mass.

• The parish asks for a donation for the Baptism Preparation and for the use of the church. A donation to the clergyman performing the ceremony is also appreciated.

• Parents must complete a Baptismal Registration Form prior to, or at, the Baptism Preparation session.

• Godparents must be Catholics over 16 years of age who have received the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation. Two Catholic godparents (one male; one female) are the standard, however, only one of the godparents must be Catholic; the other can be a Christian witness.

• Godparents must complete the Godparent Eligibility Form. Once completed, this is presented to the parish where the godparent is a registered parishioner. That parish will sign it and affix its parish seal. Either the godparent may return it to St. Leo's parish office, or the parish signing the form may mail it to St. Leo's.

• The Registration Form and the Godparent Registration Form should be picked up in the St. Leo parish office no less than two weeks before the baptism.

Naming the Baby

The baptism is also the time when the child is “introduced” to their parish family. The first question asked of the parents is, “What name have you given your child?” Because of this question the baptism is often referred as a Christening. When naming your child, it is hoped that you choose a name keeping with Christian sensibilities. While naming your child after a saint is not mandatory for either their first or middle name, we would expect that the name you choose would not be offensive to Catholic norms, traditions, or beliefs.