Rite of Baptism

Soon after the birth of a child, the parents and godparents should present the child to the church to be baptized. 

A godparent is a role model for living the Catholic faith.  In choosing a godparent, parents select a practicing Catholic who is already baptized, made their first holy communion and has received Confirmation.  The godparent must not be living with another person outside of holy matrimony (cohabiting).  If the godparent is married, they must have been married according to the Rite of Matrimony in the Catholic Church unless they received a dispensation.  According to Church law, a child may only have one godfather or one godmother or one of each.  In addition to one Catholic godparent, a second baptized Christian may serve as a "Christian witness" to the baptism.  

Documents Required for the Baptism:

• Birth Certificate (If State Certificate of Birth has not been received, the certificate provided by the hospital of birth will be accepted.)
• Data for Baptismal Register Form
• Pre-Baptismal Class Certificate(s) for Parents and Godparents

Please contact the parish office for information regarding pre-baptismal instruction for parents and godparents: 310-652-6477 or [email protected]

To learn about the rite of baptism, watch the video below. (provided by The Thomistic Institute)