GODPARENT/SPONSOR REQUIREMENTS FOR BAPTISTM/CONFIRMATION

It is a serious responsibility to choose a godparent(s) or sponsor well. Please take time to discern who will be an exemplary model of the Catholic Faith and take the role seriously. 

Basic Requirements for Parents

• Parents need to demonstrate the importance of their faith by making a point to attend Mass regularly.
• Baptisms ordinarily take place at the parish that the household (family) belong to.
• If parents belong to another parish (meaning they live in another parish boundaries or are active parishioners at another parish), they will need to obtain a letter of permission from their pastor to baptize their child at St. John the Baptist.
• If parents attend a baptismal class elsewhere, a letter verifying class attendance should be presented prior to the Baptism.  Classes are valid for 2 years with certificate of completion.
• Parents need to submit an official Birth Certificate (issued by State, County or City) - no hospital certificates are accepted.
• Parents must provide identification (Driver’s License).
• Only the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may present children for Baptism.  Grandparents and other relatives cannot present children for Baptism without expressed written permission from parents who are otherwise not able to do so.

Requirements for Godparents

• To be a practicing Catholic.
• A child may have one godparent (male or female) or two godparents (one male and one female).
• Godparents must be at least 16 years of age.
• Must be attending Mass on Sundays, on a regular basis and be registered at a parish.
• Must submit proof of Sacraments (Baptism, First Eucharist, Confirmation).
• If married, godparents must be married in the Catholic Church and not practice contraception.
• If single, must not be living with someone with whom they are not married.
• Must be in good standing with the Church.
• Must not be involved in behaviors or in careers contrary to Catholic Morality.
• Must attend baptismal instruction class prior to the Baptism (if not at St. John the Baptist, must provide a certificate of completion).
• If from another parish, godparents should bring a letter from their pastor verifying their suitability to serve as godparents.

Why so many conditions?

While many people consider the choice they make a favor or an honorary title, being a godparent/sponsor is a serious committment and obligation. One who serves as godparent/sponsor is serving in a spiritual role for that child, promising to help get the child to heaven. The godparent/sponsor is responsible for:

1. Praying and making sacrifices and penance for the sake of the godchild or the sponsored youth.
2. Supporting the spiritual formation and Catholic upbringing of their godchild or sponsored youth.
3. Assisting the parents in making sure the child is attending Mass and practicing their faith.
4. Helping to teach and demonstrate proper Catholic moral decision making and living.

Why can't we just pick anyone, even if they don't practice the faith?

The role of godparent or sponsor is to help teach and model the Catholic faith. Someone who doesn't fully live the Faith privately is unfit to publicly present a child to the Church for full initiation.