Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation and the beginning of life in Christ. Through Baptism, we are welcomed into the Church, freed from sin, and claimed as beloved children of God.
St. Joan of Arc Parish is honored to walk with families as they prepare for this joyful sacrament.
Baptism for Infants and Young Children
Parents who wish to have their child baptized are asked to contact the parish office to begin the preparation process. Baptisms are typically celebrated after parents have completed baptismal preparation and all necessary information has been received by the parish.
If this is your first child to be baptized, or if you have not recently attended a baptismal preparation class, you may be asked to participate in a baptism preparation session before the baptism is scheduled.
Godparents
Godparents have an important role in helping the baptized child grow in the Catholic faith. At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic who:
- Has received Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist
- Is at least 16 years old
- Actively practices the Catholic faith
- Is not the parent of the child
- If married, is married in a way recognized by the Catholic Church
A baptized non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness alongside a Catholic godparent.
Children Age 7 and Older
Children who are age 7 or older prepare for Baptism through a different process, since they are old enough to participate more fully in their own faith formation. Families with older children seeking Baptism should contact the parish office so we can help determine the right preparation path.
Adults Seeking Baptism
Adults who are interested in Baptism or becoming Catholic are invited to participate in OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. This process helps adults learn about the Catholic faith, grow in prayer, and prepare for the sacraments of initiation.
Begin the Baptism Process
To begin preparing for Baptism, please contact the parish office or complete the baptism inquiry form.
Parish Office
St. Joan of Arc Parish
Phone: (563) 332-7910
Email: [insert parish email]
Button: Request Baptism
Frequently Asked Questions
Parents should be registered and active members of St. Joan of Arc Parish. Parents are also asked to complete baptism preparation before the baptism is scheduled.
If you belong to another parish but would like your child baptized at St. Joan of Arc Parish, please contact your home parish. A letter of permission from your pastor may be required.
Yes. First-time parents are required to attend baptism preparation before the baptism of their child.
Parents who have already attended a baptism preparation class may be asked to repeat the class if it has been several years or if there are other circumstances. Please contact the parish office for guidance.
Yes. Godparents are encouraged to attend if they are able.
You may begin the baptism preparation process before your child is born. Contacting the parish early is encouraged so there is enough time to complete preparation and schedule the baptism.
Baptisms are scheduled through the parish office. Dates depend on the parish calendar, clergy availability, and completion of baptism preparation.
Yes. Baptisms may be celebrated during Mass when available. Baptisms may also be celebrated after weekend Masses. Baptisms can be celebrated at either of our parish campuses.
Baptism is celebrated by the pouring of water over the forehead of the child.
This depends on whether the baptism is celebrated during Mass or outside of Mass. The parish office will let you know how many families may be scheduled for a particular celebration.
Baptisms are celebrated by one of our priests or deacons, depending on the date, time, and location of the baptism.
There is no strict dress code for baptism. Since baptism celebrates new life in Christ, families are encouraged to dress the child in white.
Yes. Families are welcome to take pictures and record the baptism, while being respectful of the sacredness of the celebration.
No. There is no fee for the Sacrament of Baptism.
Church law requires at least one qualified Catholic godparent. It is customary to have two godparents, one male and one female.
Additional people may be honored in a family role, but only the official godparent or godparents are recorded in the baptismal register.
A non-Catholic Christian may serve as a Christian witness, but there must be at least one qualified Catholic godparent. The godparent vows to help raise the child in the Catholic faith as part of the ceremony.
Out-of-town godparents may be asked to provide a letter from their parish confirming that they are practicing Catholics and eligible to serve as godparents.
Please contact us. The parish is happy to walk with your family and help you prepare for your child’s Baptism.
Getting Baptized
Upcoming Baptism Classes
- July 11, 2026
- September 12, 2026
- November 7, 2026
All classes are 9:00-11:00am
To register or schedule a Baptism:
Julie Mishler