Congratulations! God has blessed you with a child, or children, and we are very happy and excited for you!
 
From the Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 1213):  "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 of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the Sacrament of Baptism and how we celebrate the sacrament for your child at St. Joan of Arc Parish.
 
Q: I would like to have my baby baptized what do I have to do? 

A: All you have to do is fill out the Baptism Information Form:

(CLICK HERE to go to the Baptism Information Form)

Once the form has been submitted, someone from the parish staff will contact you to confirm the date/time of the baptism.
 
Q: Can you tell me more about Godparents?
 
A: Sure, being a Godparent is more than an honorary title. When someone agrees to be a Godparent, it means that they are pledging to always play a significant and positive role in that Child’s life, faith formation and spiritual life. A Godparent must be a practicing Catholic, and if married, married by a Catholic priest/deacon. If you have two Godparents, Church law asks that one be a man and the other be a woman.
 
Q: But my best friend is not Catholic and I really wanted him/her to be my child’s Godparent. What can I do?
 
A: If your friend is a baptized Christian, he may stand next to the Godparent as a Christian Witness. However, there must always be at least one Godparent who is a practicing Catholic.
 
Q: My child’s father and I are not married. Can we still have our baby baptized?
 
A: Of course you can, and we are happy you have chosen to do so. However, it is essential that the parents of the child agree to raise their Son/Daughter as a Catholic and as they grow older, help them practice their faith.
 
Once again thank you for inquiring about having your child baptized here at St. Joan of Arc Parish. We hope to see you soon.