St Therese Parish of Seattle

What is Baptism?
”Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: Baptism is a sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.” (Catechism 1213) Through baptism, we become part of the royal, priestly people of God, called to holy lives of prayer and service.

Can I have my child baptized at St. Therese?
Parents/Guardians are required to be registered parishioners here. If a family is a member of another parish, a letter must be received from their own parish granting permission for the baptism to be conducted here indicating that they are registered and have participated in that parish’s baptism preparation class.

Who can be a godparent?
Church law requires that there is at least one godparent for the child baptized. Godparents need to be active, practicing and confirmed Catholics at least 16 years in age. Godparents need to submit written proof of registration from their parish.

Can a non-Catholic be a godparent?
No, only a Catholic can be a godparent because they are asked to promise to help support raising the child in the Catholic faith. A non-Catholic Christian can witness the baptism as long as there is one Catholic godparent. A non-baptized person cannot be a godparent or witness.

What if the godparents can’t come to the actual celebration?
You can have a proxy stand in for the godparent(s). Please let the staff know so they can record the name of the proxy on the certificate.

Can I schedule a private baptism?
Not unless there is an exceptional circumstance. Baptism celebrates the initiation of the child into the parish community and it is very important that the community is present at the time of the celebration.