What is baptism?
According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church:
"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 and in word.'" Paragraph 1213
Without Baptism we can receive no other sacraments through the Church. However, after Baptism, we become members of the Body of Christ.
"Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ: 'Therefore... we are members one of another.' Baptism incorporates us into the Church. From the baptismal fonts is born the People of God of the New Covenant, which transcends all the natural or human limits of nations, cultures, races, and sexes: 'For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body.'" CCC Paragraph 1267
Baptisms under the age of 7 years old
If your child is less than 7 years old and you would like them to be Baptized, please contact us for more information. DO NOT rent a hall , make reservations at any venue, or send invitations until you have spoken with Nicole regarding the date of Baptism. All paperwork must be submitted and the date of Baptism must be approved by the pastor BEFORE a Baptismal date can be approved.
Baptisms over the age of 7 years old
If your child is 7 years old or older, please see our OCIA page for more information. If you have other questions about Baptism, please see the FAQ's below, or contact us for paperwork, to schedule a Baptism, or any other questions you may have.
Baptismal class
If you are in need of a Baptism Class, please use the form below to register. The class is free of charge. Classes are held at 9am in the Pastoral Center on the dates listed. You do not need to bring anything. If you are Baptizing a child at Nativity, please be sure to bring a copy of the certificate of completion of this Baptismal class to the Faith Formation Office along with any of the required paperwork.
Baptismal Class
Baptism FAQ
When can I baptize my child?
As soon as all paperwork is turned in. We schedule baptisms on Saturdays at noon and Sundays after the 12:30 Mass.
What paperwork do I need for a baptism
- Copy of the child's birth certificate
- Parents and Godparents need to take 1 (one) Baptismal Class
- Godparents need to provide a signed and sealed Affidavit
Where can I get an Affidavit?
You can ask for a blank Affidavit from either the Parish office or the Faith Formation Office.
To have an Affidavit signed you must go to the Parish Office.
If a Godparent is not registered at Nativity, they should go to the Parish Office of the church that they are registered at to request an Affidavit from them.
Can a parent Baptize their child?
No, per Archiocesan policy, parents cannot Baptize their own children.
What happens if I don't have anyone qualified to be a Godparent?
Unfortunately, many people have this issue. While it is not ideal, if you do not have anyone that is eligible to Baptize your child, we can assign a parishioner that is in good standing to be their Godparent. Because of the nature of the role, this person should be active in your child's life, helping you to raise your child in the faith.
Can I have two men or two women (or more than two) Godparents?
No. Archdiocesan policy and the Code of Canon Law state that only one man and one woman that are not the child's parents can be Godparents.
Can I have only one Godparent?
Yes! It is perfectly acceptable to have only one Godparent, male or female, for your child. But, that Godparent must be a practicing Catholic and fulfill all of the requirements in the Affidavit.
Can I pick a date for Baptism immediately?
No. You can pick a date once all paperwork has been completed and turned in.
Contact Us
9502 Fourth Street NW
Albuquerque, NM 87114
Phone: 505-898-5253
