How do I register, what do I need?
What are the dates for baptisms?
Baptism are held on Saturday’s 9:00 am, alternating one week Spanish and one week English. (excluding major Holidays, please check with office for dates)
Are Baptism Classes Required?
Yes, Baptism Class will be assigned to both Parents and Godparents at registration. Typically, Classes are held on Monday evenings at 7:00 pm. in the parish Hall.
* NO children allowed in the classes. Please make arrangements for babysitting. (Classes alternate English and Spanish, please check with office for dates) All Classes are held In Person.
*Important Notes
What are the requirements for baptism?
For a child to be baptized in the Catholic Church, there must be a basis of hope that the child will be raised in the Catholic faith. In practice, this generally means that at least one parent is Catholic. Like many dioceses in the United States, our Diocese requires parents and godparents participate in Baptism preparation before the baptism of their children.
We offer Baptism classes here at St. John’s Cathedral. Each child brought forward for baptism must also have at least one godparent who is a confirmed, practicing Catholic age 16 or older.
At what age are children usually baptized?
There is no age limit, but infants are generally baptized before the age of 7.
If your child is 7 years of age or older he/she must attend catechism classes, please call (559) 485-0161 for more information.
Why is Baptism Class required?
Our baptism classes are designed to help you as new parent/s and godparent/s understand that baptism is the beginning of a lifelong commitment. We will discuss the meaning of the sacrament of baptism, as well as practical aspects of the ceremony itself. Please register with the parish office prior to attending these classes.
What do I bring the day of the Baptism?
A white garment is an ancient sign of the newly baptized symbolizing a new life in Christ. Please bring your child dressed in white clothes and bring a baptismal Candle.
What are the Requirements for the Parents?
For an infant to be baptized lawfully it is required that parents give their consent. Canon 867 of the code of Canon Law.
What are the Requirements for the Godparents?
Godparent must have received Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion, should be at least 16 years of age, and should be practicing Catholics who are able to give the example of a good Catholic Life.
Only one sponsor is necessary, however if you select a couple only one man and one woman with the sacrament of Matrimony in the Catholic
Church is permitted.
*If the person is civilly married or Cohabitating it disqualifies them from being godparents.