Below are some Frequently Asked Questions that we receive concerning Baptisms at Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi. If you don't find the answer to your question, please call our parish office at
(317) 859-4673.

Do I have to be a parishioner at SSFC to have my baby baptized?

The celebration of all our sacraments are community events and our community is our parish where we live. If you are a Catholic parent living with the boundaries of Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi, you have the right to have your child baptized here. If you live in another city, but for family or other reasons would like to have your child baptized here, that is a possibility with approval. Please talk to your priest or deacon about your situation.

When are baptisms held?

The typical time for baptisms at Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi is immediately after the 11:30 am Sunday Mass.  Other times and days may be available with the approval of one of our priests or deacons and if there are no other conflicts.

It is good to note the no baptisms are to be performed at Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi during Lent.

Are we required to attend any meetings or classes?

All first-time parents or parents of young children who have never attended, are required to attend Baptismal Preparation Class before scheduling the Baptism of their child. At this class, you will learn all about the sacrament itself, have your questions answered, and learn successful ways we can help you to incorporate the faith into your family life. This is a one-time class that lasts between sixty and ninety minutes, and it is suggested that both parents and Godparents attend. The class is held on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:00 pm.  

Who can be a Godparent?

Every person being baptized, whether a child or an adult, must have a sponsor. The sponsors in Baptism have traditionally been called godparents. The minimum requirement is one sponsor, but usually when infants are baptized, they have two, one of each gender. Canon law permits only one godparent of each gender – a godmother and a godfather.

To be a sponsor, you must:

  • Be at least 16 years or older
  • Have received Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation
  • Be an active Catholic and be registered at a Catholic parish
  • Not be the parent of the one being baptized
  • Show evidence of being a registered, active member of a parish, if needed
If you wish, along with the Catholic sponsor, one godparent can be a baptized Protestant Christian in good standing. They would be known as a Christian witness.

What if we're not married?

This situation, by itself, is not a sufficient reason to delay the baptism of your child. You will be asked to attend the Baptismal Preparation Class and will then meet with the priest or deacon to discuss your responsibilities to raise your child in the faith as single parents.

What if we're not married in the Church?

Jesus gave us His Sacraments to confer Grace upon us. It is this Grace that strengthens us to live according to His commandments. And this includes all of His sacraments.

We support your decision to commit to each other in a civil marriage and would like to discuss the benefits to you and your relationship of inviting God into your life together by having your marriage “blessed” in the Church. Every situation is a little different, so please discuss this with your priest or deacon.

How much does this cost?

There is no cost to have your child baptized at Saints Francis & Clare of Assisi. Donations made to the Church are always accepted. It is acceptable to show your appreciation to the priest or deacon with a card or small honorarium, but is not required. This should always be according to your means. The typical honorarium is between $25 - $50.
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