Sacraments

BAPTISM

Baptism is the Sacrament which cleanses us from original sin, makes us Christians, children of God and heirs of heaven.

Parents should schedule their child’s Baptism soon after the child’s birth.  Baptisms are generally celebrated on Saturdays.  To sign up for the informational meeting, parents should call the rectory at 914-478-2822. 

Godparents / Sponsors:

A Godparent/Sponsor assumes a very serious obligation.  At a Baptism a Godparent responds for the infant renouncing Satan, his works and empty promises.  The Sponsor expresses faith in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in the child’s name.   A Sponsor does the same with his/her godchild at Confirmation.  Other duties of a Godparent/Sponsor are to pray for his/her Godchild, to be an example of integrity and sincerity in practicing the Catholic Faith, and – if the child’s parents are unable – to see to it that the child is educated according to the teaching of the Catholic Church.  In order to fulfill such duties, the Church maintains certain conditions are a prerequisite for a Godparent/Sponsor.

1. One must be a Catholic.
2. One must have received all the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation.
3. One must be 14 years of age or older.
4. One must practice the Catholic faith by:

• • believing all the Church teaches on matters of faith and morals,
  • participating in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation (unless hindered because of some illness),
  • If married, be married in the Church, or that your marriage is recognized as valid.
  • If single, not cohabitating with anyone.

Sponsor certificates are ordinarily issued by a parish priest or deacon, during office hours Monday to Friday, to parishioners who have been registered at St. Matthew / Our Lady of Perpetual Help for at least three months.  Please contact the Parish Office.