How do we schedule a baptism?

It is recommended that baptisms be scheduled at least three months in advance of the date you have in mind. Parents are required to attend a parish baptism class prior to meeting with a priest to prepare and schedule a baptism. Call the parish office for referral to a priest at 707-542-6984, Mon.-Fri. from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00p.m.

When are baptism ceremonies held?

Baptisms are usually scheduled on Saturdays based on priest availability.

Are there age restrictions on baptisms?

Infant baptisms are given to newborns through age seven. Contact a priest to discuss infant baptisms.

Anyone over age seven who has not yet been baptized can attend classes and receive the sacrament of baptism. Call the Religious Education Office at 707-326-3408 for more information.

Is baptismal preparation required?

Yes, parents are required to attend a baptism class. Classes are usually held monthly & are listed in the parish bulletin. Contact the parish office for the next scheduled class.

Can we have a priest or deacon from outside St. Eugene’s perform our child’s baptism?

Yes, in most cases. However, a St. Eugene’s priest must give prior approval for visiting priests or deacons and the parents must attend the preparatory meeting with a St. Eugene’s priest or deacon. Priests and deacons from outside the Diocese of Santa Rosa must get approval from the Bishop of Santa Rosa.

What about Godparents?

The Church requires that all children to be baptized have at least one Godparent of either sex. One Godparent of each sex may also be chosen. To fulfill the role of Godparent a person must be at least sixteen years of age and must be a baptized and confirmed Catholic. The person chosen must be living a life in harmony with the role to be undertaken (that is, they should be regularly practicing Catholics and if married, they should have been married in the Church.) The child’s parents may not serve as Godparents.

How should our child be dressed for baptism?

Infants and small children are traditionally dressed in white. Some local children’s clothing stores sell baptismal attire and supplies. The traditional baptismal candle are provided by the parish, but familiesmay bring their own to the ceremony if they so choose.

Is there a fee for baptisms?

The Church does not charge a fee for baptisms. It is traditional, however, to make a donation to both the parish and the priest or deacon who performs the baptism. Usual donations range from $50 to $200 for each.

Will I receive a baptism certificate afterwards?

Baptism certificates are available upon request at anytime during the life of the child. Certificates may be needed for proof of baptism when the child receives First Communion, is confirmed as a teenager, is requesting entrance into seminary or religious life, and at the time of marriage.