What is Baptism?

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters of God. We become members of Christ, incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission. "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” -CCC1213

How to Obtain a Baptism

Sacrament of Baptism for Children (6 years old or younger)

Preparation Requirements:

• Parent(s) and godparent(s) must attend a Baptism class. If godparents do not live in the area, they may attend a class in their own Parish.
• The following documents must be completed and turned into the Parish Office. Once the following are received, a baptism will be scheduled.
  • Baptism Registration Form
  • Baptism Sponsor Covenant Form(s)
  • Copy of child's birth certificate
  • Baptism Preparation Class completion certificates for parents and godparents.
• Baptisms are held at 10:00am on scheduled dates (See 2022 Baptism Schedule below).

Godparent Requirements:

• Only one godparent is required for Baptism, but there may be two. If there are two godparents, there must be one male and one female.
• Godparent cannot be a parent of the child being baptized.
• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Must have received the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation).
• If married, must be in a valid Catholic marriage (married by a Priest or a Deacon).
• Must be a practicing Catholic living a life of active faith in the Catholic Church and should be someone who will have some part in the development of the child's faith.
• Must attend a Baptism preparation class at St. Elizabeth. If godparents do not live in the area, they may attend a class in their own Parish. If this is the case, they are to provide evidence that they attended the class. Additionally, they should also supply evidence that they are eligible to be a sponsor (e.g., Written statement from their Pastor).
• Must complete and sign the Baptism Sponsor Covenant form required by the Diocese of Austin.

Sacrament of Baptism for Youth (ages 7-17)
 

Parents wishing to have their child baptized must enroll their child in Religious Education. Children above 2nd grade are required to attend additional catechesis through our Sacramental Preparation program.

For more information about Religious Education, please contact Maria Watts: maria.watts@stelizabethpf.org


18 years and older:

If you are 18 years old and up and ready to take the next step on your journey of faith, we invite you to join our Rite of Christian Initiation process. This step-by-step process by which adults are initiated, or brought into the Catholic Church, holds sessions once a week. These sessions are open to anyone wishing to join the Catholic Church through baptism or the profession of faith, or anyone who wishes to complete the Christian Initiation by receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist. Practicing Catholics who wish to enrich their faith are also invited. Additionally, there are opportunities to sponsor candidates who are on their journey of faith. Please contact re@stelizabethpf.org for the most current information.