Baptism
“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as [children] 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 in the word."” CCC 1213

Updated July 1, 2020, Baptisms are available with a few changes to help us all be safe and follow state guidelines. 

Steps for preparing for your child's baptism (up to age 7):

1. contact our  Baptism coordinator Caitlin at baptism@stfrancisbend.org 
2. Register as a member of St Francis register here
3. Complete the Parent Form.  
4. Send us a copy of the child’s birth certificate
5. Attend a Baptism Prep Class.  Contact the Baptism Coordinator for the next available Baptism Class for parents and godparents.
6. Choose godparents: A godparent is: 16 years or older, Confirmed practicing Catholic, living in harmony with the Faith, if married is married in the Catholic church, not the mother or father, and is willing to be the godparent. If more than one god parent is chosen, they must be of the opposite sex.
7. Godparents must attend a Baptism Prep Class and submit a certificate/letter of completion
8. ​Godparents must be practicing confirmed Catholics. See the Godparent form for other guidelines.
9. Complete and turn in  Godparent Form for each godparent
10. Return all forms to parish at least two weeks prior to desired baptismal date:  Parent Form, Godparents Forms, birth certificate, verification of attendance at a Baptism Prep Class for both parents and godparent
11. Schedule Baptism - ​The baptism can only be scheduled after all the forms have been received.
12. Baptisms are usually first and second Saturdays in English and third and fourth Saturdays in Spanish.

 

Steps for baptism of older children (age 7-18)

• Child must attend 2 years of Faith Formation according to their age group. 
• Parents must attend a weekend workshops.

Steps for adult baptism: See RCIA
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Note for unique situations: These requirements are the norm but we understand that families  might have unique situations. To discuss your situation, call the office at (541) 382-3631 and ask to be transferred to the Director of Faith Formation.