Baptism
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"Go and make disciples of every nation, baptizing in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." -Matthew 28:19-20
If you would like to schedule the baptism of a child, please call the rectory (845-896-6400) to set up a meeting with one of the parish priests. If possible, please contact us before the birth of the child to allow time for adequate preparation.
Baptisms are ordinarily scheduled on Sundays at 1:45pm.
---------------------------------------How to Choose Godparents:
The following statement is read during the Rite of Baptism:
"Dear parents and godparents: You have come here to present this child for baptism. By water and the Holy Spirit he/she is to receive the gift of new life from God, who is love. On your part, you must make it your constant care to bring him/her up in the practice of the faith. See that the divine life which God gives him/her is kept safe from the poison of sin, to grow alwys stronger in his/her heart."
As you prepare to celebrate this beautiful sacrament with your child, prayerfully consider who you could call on for help in teaching your child the practice of the faith, detachment from sin, and virtuous living. Reflect on the lists below and discern who in your life possesses such qualities and abilities for the responsibility of being godparents.
Because of the great responsibilities of a godparent, the Catholic Church has some minimum requirements it asks of all godparents set forth by the Code of Canon Law:- Be only one male sponsor or one female sponsor or one of each.
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Have received the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Communion.
- If married, be married according to the laws of the Church.
- Be active in the practice of the faith and receiving the sacraments regularly. (They must also appear on the official register of their parish church.)
- Not be the father or mother of the one being baptized.
Qualities of a good godparent: (the godparent must be Catholic):
- Believes in Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
- Receives the sacraments on a regular basis, especially Sunday Mass each week and frequent Confession.
- Prays often and lives a virtuous life.
- Is a loving and caring person.
- Will be a spiritual partner with the parents.