“Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
— 1 Peter 3:21
 
 

Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation. In Baptism, the Holy Spirit moves us to answer Christ's call to holiness.

At St. Thomas the Apostle Church, baptisms are usually scheduled on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 1:30pm (except during the Lenten Season). Baptisms are performed for families that are registered parishioners for at least 3 months. (To become a registered parishioner, please click here).

How to Begin the Process of Baptism

The parish family at St. Thomas the Apostle Church congratulates you on the birth of your child!

The Catholic Church has specific requirements for Baptism and for naming Godparents. We ask that parents carefully review all the information we have provided here before beginning the process. Once you have read the requirements listed below, you may download the Baptism Form and submit it. You will be asked to set up an appointment for one of our Baptism Preparation classes as part of the process.

For Adults: To learn more about adult baptism and conversion, please visit the OCIA ministry page (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults).

 
 

A Godparent’s role is to assist the parents in raising the child in the Catholic faith. To fulfill this role, the Godparent must be in full communion with the Church and its teachings.

The Code of Canon Law states that a Catholic Godparent must meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 16 years old 

  • Have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation 

  • Be a regular participant in the life of their church 

  • Be a practicing Catholic 

  • Live a life of active faith in the Catholic Church 

  • If married, their marriage was celebrated in a Roman Catholic Church

  • Obtain a “Letter of Eligibility” from their own parish

    • A Letter of Eligibility is a signed statement from their parish confirming the person is a practicing Catholic in good standing (baptized and confirmed), regularly attends Mass, is living according to Church teachings, and is eligible to serve as a Godparent.

    • Please note that a confirmation certificate cannot typically be used in place of a Letter of Eligibility in the Archdiocese of Newark for baptism. A confirmation certificate only proves the sacrament was received, not current active standing.

  • At least one Godparent must be named. It is not required to name two Godparents.

  • If naming two Godparents:

    • Each Godparent must meet all stated requirements.

    • One must be male and one must be female.

 
 
 

If you have read over these requirements and are ready to begin the process of scheduling a Baptism for your child, please download the form below and submit via email to Donna.salgado@stachurchbloomfield.org or drop off at the Parish Center.

 
baptism form
 

This form will be looked over and you will receive a call from Donna Salgado (973) 338-9190 x131 in reference to the baptism. You may also reach her by email at Donna.salgado@stachurchbloomfield.org.