Requirements for Godparents/Sponsors:

Only one sponsor/godparent is required. If two are chosen, one of each gender must be selected. To be qualified to serve as a godparent, a person must:

1. Be a Catholic who has received Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation (Sacraments of Initiation).
2. Live a life of faith befitting the role of godparent.
3. If the godparent is married, the marriage must be a marriage recognized by the Roman Catholic Church as valid. St. Anthony's staff can assist you if you have any doubts about this.
4. Be older than 16 years.
5. Not be the mother or father of the child.
6. Sign the “Covenant Form” (available from the parish office).
7. Have attended a baptismal preparation program. If the sponsor is not a St. Anthony's parishioner, they may attend a course at their home parish. A letter is required from the parish/pastor to confirm attendance and being in good standing. If this is the case, please check with your home parish for their requirements to be sponsors.

Because the sponsors are required to help the child live out the Catholic faith, non-Catholics are not permitted to be sponsors. If a family wishes to have a non-Catholic participate in the Rite, it is required that the person be a baptized Christian and can be designated as a Christian witness. He/she will be recorded as “Christian witness” in the official records. The Christian witness is asked to provide a copy of their baptismal record or give a written statement attesting to their baptism and that they strive to live their Christian faith. They are welcome, but not required to attend the baptismal preparation class. A person who has left the Catholic Church (ex-Catholic) cannot serve as a Christian witness.