What is Baptism?

 

Baptism is the "first profession of faith" (CCC 189) whereby one is "configured into Christ" (CCC 1272) and cleansed from sin. Baptism leaves an indelible mark of one's new identity in Christ's family. For parents, Baptism is a solemn sacrament as they promise to commit to raising their child in the Catholic faith (i.e. by attending Mass every Sunday to worship God and contribute to their child's growth in faith through catechesis of mind and heart). 

 

 

To have your child baptized at St. Mary's Cathedral...

1) You must be a registered parishioner.

2) You must come to the weekend Mass regularly (every Sunday or Saturday vigil) each week and be known by our Rector, Msgr. O’Connor.  During the Rite of Baptism, you will promise to raise your child Catholic. Mass attendance is an essential part of the life of all Catholics.

 

3) You must be a registered Cathedral parishioner for six months before you may schedule a baptism.

4)The child for whom you are seeking baptism must be no more than six years old. Children older than six must proceed through the Order of Christian Initiation for Children prior to baptism.

5) Regularly attending registered parishioners who wish to have a child baptized should contact the Parish Office at (503) 228-4397. You will schedule an appointment with Deacon Greg. Your appointment will last about 90 minutes, during which you will discuss sacraments generally and the Rite of Baptism specifically.

6) After your meeting with the deacon, you will receive a personalized link so that you can provide information the parish needs for Sacramental records. Once the parish has the necessary information you will schedule a date for your child’s baptism. 

Note: Baptisms are scheduled on Sundays after the 11:00 am Mass. St. Mary’s Cathedral does not schedule baptisms for non-parishioners. 

Godparents (Sponsors)

 

At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic - meaning they attend Sunday Mass and follow the Precepts of the Catholic Church. For parishioners of St. Mary's Cathedral who are asked to be a godparent, a letter of good standing is required. Known parishioners must be coming to Mass and be known by Monsignor O'Connor in order for that letter to be signed by him.

In general, the following are requirements from Canon Law regarding who can be a Godparent (CIC 874): 

1. Be designated by the one who is to receive Baptism or by the pastor or minister of the sacrament and have the aptitude and intention of fulfilling this function.
2. Have completed the sixteenth year of age, or the pastor or minister of the sacrament has granted an exception for a just cause.
3. Be a Catholic who has been confirmed and has already received the Sacrament of the Eucharist and who leads a life of faith in keeping with the function to be taken on.
4. Not be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared.
5. Not be the father or mother of the one who is to be baptized.