Congratulations! We are excited to welcome your son or daughter to our community!

What is Baptism?

The first of the seven sacraments, and the “door”

which gives access to the other sacraments. Baptism

is the first and chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins

because it unites us with Christ, who died for our sins

and rose for our justification. Baptism, Confirmation,

and Eucharist constitute the “sacraments of

initiation” by which a believer receives the remission

of original and personal sin, begins a new life in

Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is incorporated into

the Church, the Body of Christ.

The rite of Baptism consists in immersing the

candidate in water, or pouring water on the head,

while pronouncing the invocation of the Most Holy

Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, Glossary)

Why does the Church baptize infants?

The Church baptizes infants because they are born

with original sin. They need to be freed from the

power of the Evil One and brought into that reprise

of freedom which belongs to the children of God.

The sheer gratuitousness of the grace of salvation is

particularly manifest in infant Baptism. The Church

and the parents would deny a child the priceless

grace of becoming a child of God were they not to

confer Baptism shortly after birth. The practice of

infant Baptism has always been practiced by the

Church.

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1250-1252)

Baptism at St. Mary Magdalen

Who is this packet for?

This packet is for parents (or legal guardians) of

infants and small children (under age 7) who are

seeking baptism for their children. Parents who are

seeking baptism for their child should normally be

participating, registered members of the St. Mary

Magdalen Parish community.

For adults or older children who are

interested in being baptized or becoming Catholic,

please contact the parish office.

When should a child be baptized?

A child should generally be baptized within a few

weeks of birth (CIC, c. 867 §1) , as soon as possible after

the parents have been prepared and catechized

regarding the Sacrament of Baptism (IB 11). Baptisms

are not usually celebrated during Lent or Advent.

When a child is in danger of death, baptism is

to take place immediately (see CIC, c. 867 §2). At a later date,

ceremonies are to be offered according to the rites. (IB

14)

Where will the baptism take place?

The Baptism will take place at the baptismal font in

the Parish Church. Most Baptisms at St. Mary

Magdalen are scheduled for Sunday at 1:30pm.

Beginning January 2017, Baptisms will be scheduled

for Saturday at 10:00am.

What rules govern infant baptism?

Infant Baptism is governed by:

The universal law of the Catholic Church

(Code of Canon Law)

The policies of the Archdiocese of Seattle (Many

gifts, One Spirit)

The Rite of Baptism for Children

The policies of St. Mary Magdalen Parish

Do you have a question not answered

by this packet?

Please contact Robert in the Parish Office

(425) 353-1211 ext. 118

rbrajkovich@smmparish.org

Requirements

and Responsibilities of Parents

Parents should be actively living their faith,

participating in the sacraments, and seeking to

deepen their relationship with God.

Who may request baptism?

Parents (guardians) are responsible for requesting the

sacrament of baptism for their infant/child. A period

of catechetical preparation is required for the parents

(guardians) and godparents of those preparing for the

baptism of infants and children. (IB 1)

Consent by at least one biological parent or

legal guardian is the minimum requirement for

baptism to occur (see CIC, c. 868 §1, 1°).

What must parents do prior to baptism?

Parents must:

Ensure the paperwork is in order

Select appropriate sponsors (godparents)

Complete a baptism preparation course

Make the pastor or baptism coordinator aware of

any special needs your child might have.

What obligations do parents have after baptism?

For an infant/child to be baptized at least one

practicing Catholic shall agree to raise the child in

the practice of the faith.

Parents (guardians) have a sacred responsibility:

Raise their children in the practice of the faith

Instruct their children on the beliefs of the

Catholic Church

Present their child for First Communion (age 7)

and Confirmation (age 16).

The pastor may determine that baptism is to be

delayed if there is a lack of intent on the part of the

parents/legal guardians to raise the child Catholic. (IB 13)

SPONSORS (GODPARENTS)

What is the role of the Sponsors (godparents)?

Sponsors (godparents) are chosen by the parents/legal

guardians of the infant or child to be baptized and are

willing to accept the responsibility of presenting the

infant or child for baptism, assisting the parents/legal

guardians, and witnessing the public event of the

sacrament. A sponsor (godparent) is also responsible

for assisting the baptized in fulfilling the obligations

acquired by the sacrament (see CIC, c. 872).

Sponsors (godparents) may not be the parents/

legal guardians of the individual being baptized

(see CIC, c. 874 §1, 5°).

A Sponsor must be:

An example of a mature, lived faithA Practicing

Catholic in good standing.

Confirmed

At least sixteen years of age

not bound by any canonical penalty legitimately

imposed or declared.

If married, Sacramentally married in the Church.

A sponsor should be a good example of the faith and

able to help the baptized on their faith journey.

Although one sponsor (godparent) is sufficient, when

there are two sponsors (godparents), one must be

male and one female (see CIC, c. 873).

One of the two sponsors (godparents) must be

Catholic; the other may be a baptized non-Catholic.

The Catholic party is to be a practicing member of

his/her Catholic faith community. The non-Catholic

party is called a Christian witness and not a sponsor

or godparent (see CIC, c. 874 §2). The ability or

willingness of the non-Catholic to support the

parents/legal guardians in their intention to raise their

child in the Catholic faith is to be considered.

Revised 11/8/2016

St. Mary Magdalen Infant Baptism Registration Office use only:

Catholic Church Date of baptism: ________________ Everett, Washington Today’s date: _____/_____/_____ ID #:______________________

M D Y

Please fill out all available information and return to the parish office.

Family Information Are you a registered parishioner at St. Mary Magdalen? ___yes ___no

____________________ ________________________________ ______________ ________________, WA _______________________ Last Name Mailing Address City Zip Phone Number

Child’s Information legal name: ____________________________ _________________________ ________________________ M___ F___

First Middle Last

______/_______/_____ Birth Place: _________________,_____ Please attach photocopy of

Birth Certificate Birth/Due date City State

Father’s Information:

legal name: _________________________ _________________________ ________________________

First Middle Last Baptized: ___ yes ___ no Religion: _________________ If Catholic, received: Confirmation: ___ yes ___ no Communion: ___ yes ___ no

Marital Status: ____________________ Sacramentally married in the Catholic Church by a priest or deacon? ___ yes ___ no

Mothers Information: legal name: _________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _______________________

First Middle Last Maiden Last

Baptized: ___ yes ___ no Religion: _________________ If Catholic, received: Confirmation: ___ yes ___ no Communion: ___ yes ___ no

Marital Status: ____________________ Sacramentally married in the Catholic Church by a priest or deacon? ___ yes ___ no

Return this form along with the Baptismal Sponsor (Godparent) Application to the parish office

Once ALL paperwork is completed and submitted a Baptism Date will be scheduled.

Baptisms happen once a month. Baptism Paperwork check list:

This Registration form

Sponsor (Godparent) information form (attached)

Child’s Birth Certificate (photo Copy)

Verification of parent’s Formation (class attendance)

Sponsor (Godparent) # 1:_______________________

Sponsor Confirmation Certificate (Copy)

Sacramental Marriage Certificate (if married)

Verification of Formation (class attendance)

Sponsor (Godparent) application

Sponsor(Godparent) 2:__________________ (optional)

Sponsor Confirmation Certificate (Copy)

Sacramental Marriage Certificate (if married)

Verification of Formation (class attendance)

Sponsor (Godparent) application

Revised 11/8/2016

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church Baptismal Godparent Information – to be filled out by Parents

“Sponsors serve as ministers representing the faith

community into which the candidate is being initiated” (Many Gifts, One Spirit)

Godparents (also called “Sponsors”) are chosen by the parents (guardians) of the infant or child to be baptized and are willing to

accept the responsibility of presenting the infant or child for baptism, assisting the parents/legal guardians, and witnessing the public

event of the sacrament. A godparent is also responsible for assisting the baptized in fulfilling the obligations acquired by the

sacrament (see CIC, c. 872). To qualify as a Godparent, a Catholic must meet all the requirements listed below. If the Godparent does not meet one of the requirements, please

have them contact the parish office for assistance: A good example of the living the Catholic faith in both spirituality and morality. This includes participating in Mass every

Sunday.

A practicing Catholic in good standing (fully initiated, and not bound by any canonical penalty).

o They have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation

o If they are married they must be sacramentally married in the Catholic Church (married by a Catholic Priest or

deacon in Catholic Church). If they are not married they cannot be cohabitating. (If a couple is not married in the

church, please have them contact the parish office. We can easily help them bring their marriage into the church.)

At least 16 years of age.

Willing and able to work with the baptized on his/her spiritual journey.

Parents/legal guardians cannot be Godparents. (IB 19, see CIC, c. 874 §1, 5°).

A Catechumen or infant who will be baptized may have one or two sponsors. If there are two, one must be male and one must

be female. (CIC, c. 873). A baptized non-Catholic may serve as a “witness” so long as there is also a Catholic who is the

Godparent. (IB 20)

Must be registered in their parish for at least 6 Months

o They do not need to be a member of St. Mary Magdalen parish (they can be members of another Catholic Parish).

However, it is best if they are not too far away.

Full Legal Name of Godparent 1: _______________________________________ Phone Number __________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________ M___ F___ Street City State Zip

Confirmed? _Yes _No Marital Status:_______________ Sacramentally married in the Catholic Church? ___ yes ___ no

Parish where registered: __________________________________________________ Relationship to child:________________

Name City State

Optional

Full Legal Name of Godparent 2: _______________________________________Phone Number __________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________ M___ F___ Street City State Zip

Confirmed? _Yes _No Marital Status:_______________ Sacramentally married in the Catholic Church? ___ yes ___ no

Parish where registered: __________________________________________________ Relationship to child:________________

Name City State

Baptismal Godparent (Sponsor) Application (to be filled out by both sponsors) must also be returned to the parish office along with the Confirmation Certificate and Marriage Certificate.

Once ALL paperwork is completed and submitted a Baptismal date will be scheduled. Baptisms happen once a month.

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church

Baptism Godparent Information

“Sponsors serve as ministers representing the faith

community into which the candidate is being initiated”

(Many Gifts, One Spirit)

Dear Sponsor,

To be chosen as a godparent is a special honor. You represent the Catholic Faith Community. You have been entrusted

with the responsibility to participate in this child’s Christian life and education, second only to the parents. This privilege

offers you the opportunity to develop a mutually enriching spiritual relationship – one that will last throughout this life and

beyond. Please carefully read this letter and consider your role as the Godparent of this child.

What is Baptism?

The first of the seven sacraments, and the “door” which gives access to the other sacraments. Baptism is the first and

chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins because it unites us with Christ, who died for our sins and rose for our justifica-

tion. Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist constitute the “sacraments of initiation” by which a believer receives the re-

mission of original and personal sin, begins a new life in Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is incorporated into the Church,

the Body of Christ.

What is the role of the Sponsors (godparents)?

Sponsors (godparents) are chosen by the parents/legal guardians of the infant or child to be baptized and are willing to

accept the responsibility of presenting the infant or child for baptism, assisting the parents/legal guardians, and witness-

ing the public event of the sacrament. A sponsor (godparent) is also responsible for assisting the baptized in fulfilling the

obligations acquired by the sacrament (see CIC, c. 872). Please see the back of this form for the specific requirements

of the Sponsor. Sponsors have the special role of assisting the parents in the spiritual growth of the child. This is a life-

long responsibility. .There are many ways you can nurture this spiritual relationship and become a special friend to your

godchild. Among them are:

Celebrate the anniversary of this holy day of Baptism each year with a visit, or a card.

As your godchild grows, listen to and share in the struggles and triumphs of living a Christian life and keep yourself

informed on Christian doctrine and values, to be able to answer questions as they arise.

Encourage a consistent life of faith through special cards, letters or gifts, which celebrate holy events….Christmas,

Easter…and personal growth events…graduation, first job, engagement.

Participate in, or send assurance of prayer, as your godchild receives the other sacraments, particularly, First

Communion and Confirmation, which complete initiation into the Church Community, and Reconciliation.

Be supportive of your godchild’s parents in their role as the primary religious educators of their child.

And most importantly, become a model of Catholic living for your godchild, through daily prayer, virtuous living

and active participation in parish life and liturgy, particularly weekly Sunday Mass.

Thank you for your willingness to serve as a Sponsor. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Robert Brajkovich

Pastoral Assistant for Adult Faith Formation & Liturgy

St. Mary Magdalen, Everett, WA

(425) 353-1211 x118 rbrajkovich@smmparish.org

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church

Baptism Godparent Application

Sponsor Requirements: (CIC, c. 874)

A good example of the living the Catholic faith.

A practicing Catholic in good standing (fully initiated, and not bound by any canonical penalty).

They have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

If they are married or living as a married couple (cohabitating), they must be sacramentally married in the Catholic Church.

At least 16 years of age.

Parents/legal guardians cannot be sponsors. (IB 19, see CIC, c. 874 §1, 5°).

A Catechumen or infant who will be baptized may have one or two sponsors. If there are two, one must be male and one must

be female. (CIC, c. 873). A baptized non-Catholic may serve as a “witness” so long as there is also a Catholic who is the spon-

sor. (IB 20)

The Sponsor(s) must participate in a baptism preparation program. If they are not parishioners at St. Mary Magdalen, they may

take the class at their home parish. They will need to turn a letter or certificate of completion two weeks prior to the baptism.

Willing and able to work with the baptized on his/her spiritual journey.

A photo copy of the sponsor’s Confirmation certificate.

Certificates can be obtained from the parish in which you were confirmed or baptized.

If married, a photocopy of their marriage certificate indicating a Catholic Sacramental wedding.

Certification of Baptism Preparation completion (unless completed at St. Mary Magdalen)

I understand my commitment to the above and accept the responsibility of being a godparent

to:_____________________. I have read and understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Godparent.

Name of Child __________________________________________________________________________________

Print Full Legal Name of Godparent ________________________________________________________________

Phone number ______________________________

Signature of Godparent and Date __________________________________________________________________

If this godparent is not a registered parishioner of St. Mary Magdalen

the following must be completed by the pastor from his/her parish.

The person signed above is a member of this parish, has completed Baptism classes and is eligible to act as a Godparent

for the Sacrament of Baptism.

Pastor’s Signature______________________________________________________

Print Pastor’s Name _______________________________________________________

Parish __________________________________________________________________

Complete Address _________________________________________________________

Please return completed form to the Parish Office at least two weeks before the date of the baptism.

Church

Seal

You must include with this form:

GODPARENT’S COMMITMENT

PASTOR’S PERMISSION TO BE A GODPARENT

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church

Baptism Godparent Information

“Sponsors serve as ministers representing the faith

community into which the candidate is being initiated”

(Many Gifts, One Spirit)

Dear Sponsor,

To be chosen as a godparent is a special honor. You represent the Catholic Faith Community. You have been entrusted

with the responsibility to participate in this child’s Christian life and education, second only to the parents. This privilege

offers you the opportunity to develop a mutually enriching spiritual relationship – one that will last throughout this life and

beyond. Please carefully read this letter and consider your role as the Godparent of this child.

What is Baptism?

The first of the seven sacraments, and the “door” which gives access to the other sacraments. Baptism is the first and

chief sacrament of forgiveness of sins because it unites us with Christ, who died for our sins and rose for our justifica-

tion. Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist constitute the “sacraments of initiation” by which a believer receives the re-

mission of original and personal sin, begins a new life in Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is incorporated into the Church,

the Body of Christ.

What is the role of the Sponsors (godparents)?

Sponsors (godparents) are chosen by the parents/legal guardians of the infant or child to be baptized and are willing to

accept the responsibility of presenting the infant or child for baptism, assisting the parents/legal guardians, and witness-

ing the public event of the sacrament. A sponsor (godparent) is also responsible for assisting the baptized in fulfilling the

obligations acquired by the sacrament (see CIC, c. 872). Please see the back of this form for the specific requirements

of the Sponsor. Sponsors have the special role of assisting the parents in the spiritual growth of the child. This is a life-

long responsibility. .There are many ways you can nurture this spiritual relationship and become a special friend to your

godchild. Among them are:

Celebrate the anniversary of this holy day of Baptism each year with a visit, or a card.

As your godchild grows, listen to and share in the struggles and triumphs of living a Christian life and keep yourself

informed on Christian doctrine and values, to be able to answer questions as they arise.

Encourage a consistent life of faith through special cards, letters or gifts, which celebrate holy events….Christmas,

Easter…and personal growth events…graduation, first job, engagement.

Participate in, or send assurance of prayer, as your godchild receives the other sacraments, particularly, First

Communion and Confirmation, which complete initiation into the Church Community, and Reconciliation.

Be supportive of your godchild’s parents in their role as the primary religious educators of their child.

And most importantly, become a model of Catholic living for your godchild, through daily prayer, virtuous living

and active participation in parish life and liturgy, particularly weekly Sunday Mass.

Thank you for your willingness to serve as a Sponsor. If you have any questions, please contact me.

Robert Brajkovich

Pastoral Assistant for Adult Faith Formation & Liturgy

St. Mary Magdalen, Everett, WA

(425) 353-1211 x118 rbrajkovich@smmparish.org

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church

Baptism Godparent Application

Sponsor Requirements: (CIC, c. 874)

A good example of the living the Catholic faith.

A practicing Catholic in good standing (fully initiated, and not bound by any canonical penalty).

They have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

If they are married or living as a married couple (cohabitating), they must be sacramentally married in the Catholic Church.

At least 16 years of age.

Parents/legal guardians cannot be sponsors. (IB 19, see CIC, c. 874 §1, 5°).

A Catechumen or infant who will be baptized may have one or two sponsors. If there are two, one must be male and one must

be female. (CIC, c. 873). A baptized non-Catholic may serve as a “witness” so long as there is also a Catholic who is the spon-

sor. (IB 20)

The Sponsor(s) must participate in a baptism preparation program. If they are not parishioners at St. Mary Magdalen, they may

take the class at their home parish. They will need to turn a letter or certificate of completion two weeks prior to the baptism.

Willing and able to work with the baptized on his/her spiritual journey.

A photo copy of the sponsor’s Confirmation certificate.

Certificates can be obtained from the parish in which you were confirmed or baptized.

If married, a photocopy of their marriage certificate indicating a Catholic Sacramental wedding.

Certification of Baptism Preparation completion (unless completed at St. Mary Magdalen)

I understand my commitment to the above and accept the responsibility of being a godparent

to:_____________________. I have read and understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Godparent.

Name of Child __________________________________________________________________________________

Print Full Legal Name of Godparent ________________________________________________________________

Phone number ______________________________

Signature of Godparent and Date __________________________________________________________________

If this godparent is not a registered parishioner of St. Mary Magdalen

the following must be completed by the pastor from his/her parish.

The person signed above is a member of this parish, has completed Baptism classes and is eligible to act as a Godparent

for the Sacrament of Baptism.

Pastor’s Signature______________________________________________________

Print Pastor’s Name _______________________________________________________

Parish __________________________________________________________________

Complete Address _________________________________________________________

Please return completed form to the Parish Office at least two weeks before the date of the baptism.

Church

Seal

You must include with this form:

GODPARENT’S COMMITMENT

PASTOR’S PERMISSION TO BE A GODPARENT