Baptism

Child of God

Baptism in the Eastern Churches is always accompanied by chrismation (equivalent to confirmation in Western Christianity) wherein one is sealed by the Holy Spirit. Both sacraments are administered by a priest, and always in the same ceremony.

Requirements for Baptism

1. Parents

Parents must be registered and practicing members of Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Catholic Church (regular participation in the Divine Liturgy).
Parents must commit to raising their child in the Catholic faith and bringing the child regularly to church after Baptism.

2. Godparents (Sponsors)

You may choose one godfather, one godmother, or one of each for your child. According to the Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church:

1. Canon 873: There is to be one male sponsor, one female sponsor, or one of each.

2. Canon 874: The sponsor must:

Be a confirmed Catholic
Be at least sixteen (16) years of age
Be living a life in harmony with the Catholic faith (practicing Catholic and attending Mass regularly)

Additional requirements

Godparents must not be the father or mother of the child.
Each godparent must provide a Sponsor Certificate from their parish priest confirming that they are practicing Catholics and fulfill the Church’s requirements to serve as a sponsor.

3. Items Needed for the Baptism

Please bring the following items on the day of the Baptism:

A white garment or robe for the child (to be worn after Baptism)
Baptismal candles for the procession (dripless candles with a protective cup or guard to prevent wax from dripping on the floor)
Two white towels (one large and one small)
Soap
Please designate a reader to proclaim the Epistle during the service.

Baptism and Chrismation Form

Child’s Information

Child’s First Name

Last Name

Date of Birth

Place of Birth

Date of Baptism Requested

Time of Baptism

Chrismation Name (optional)

Family Contact Information

Home Address

City

State

ZIP code

Phone Number

E-mail Address

Parents’ Information

Father’s Full Name (as it should appear on the certificate)

Father’s Rite

Mother’s Full Name (as it should appear on the certificate)

Mother’s Rite

Godparents’ Information

Godfather’s Full Name

Catholic

Godfather's Age

Godmother’s Full Name

Godmother's Age