The Philippines is a predominantly Christian nation, where more than 78% of the population are Roman Catholics. When a child is born into a Catholic family, he is given the sacraments of baptism and confirmation to symbolize lifelong commitment to God and the Church. The conferment of these sacraments is regarded as significant milestones and often celebrated with friends and family.
Ideally, the Catholic church encourages parents to have their children baptized within the first few weeks of life, while the sacrament of confirmation is performed during a child’s adolescent years. But these are not rigid rules as the church also welcomes adults who wish to receive the sacraments of baptism and confirmation. Some of the most common reasons adults seek to receive these sacraments are:
- Conversion - People who choose Catholicism as their faith later in life.
- Returning to the Church - Individuals who were baptized as children but haven't been actively practicing the faith and wish to re-commit themselves.
- Adoption - Some Catholic families choose to baptize adopted children as part of their welcome into the family.
The conferment of these sacraments, including the sacrament of first Holy Communion and matrimony are celebrated and properly documented by the parish with the corresponding certificates.
Documentary Requirements for Baptism and Confirmation:
Baptisms and Confirmations are scheduled through the parish office. Upon application, the parents (or the person himself if he is already of legal age) will be given a list of requirements, fees, and any other prerequisites. The requirements and fees may vary, depending on the parish.
Two of the most common requirements are:
- PSA Birth Certificate – this is required to establish the child’s identity and parentage.
- PSA Marriage Certificate – this may be required of the parents of a child for baptism or confirmation, or of a married adult who is seeking to receive either or both sacraments.
Additional Documents (May vary depending on the parish):
Baptism:
- Certificate of Sponsorship (Godparents) – Some churches may require a Certificate of Sponsorship to confirm the godparents' religious affiliation and other qualifications.
- PSA Marriage Certificate of Parents (if married) - This document serves as proof of the parents' marital status.
Confirmation:
- Certificate of Baptism - This document signifies that the candidate has already received the sacrament of baptism, otherwise, the candidate will be required to undergo baptism first before they are scheduled for confirmation.
- Proof of Attendance in Catechesis Program – Prior to finalizing the candidate’s schedule for confirmation, they must first undergo a series of activities to prepare them for the conferment of the sacrament.
Important Reminders:
- Always consult the parish office first for the complete list of requirements for any type of sacrament you or your family seek to receive.
- Secure original and photocopies of all the documents you need to submit.
- Complete your attendance in all the required activities prior to the day the sacrament is to be performed.
Planning for Your Child's Spiritual Journey
Planning for Baptism and Confirmation involves not just paperwork, but also spiritual preparation. Talk to your child about these sacraments and the importance of faith in your family. Encourage them to ask questions and participate in the pre-sacramental programs offered by the parish.
Filipinos: A People of Deep Faith
Filipinos are renowned worldwide for our strong faith and devotion. Baptizing and confirming our children are ways to nurture their connection to God and integrate them into the vibrant Catholic community. By participating in these sacraments, we strengthen not only our individual faith, but also the fabric of our families and communities.
Let the process of preparing for Baptism and Confirmation be a joyful one. Embrace the opportunity to discuss faith with your children and celebrate their commitment to God. Remember, you can streamline the documentation process by ordering PSA birth certificates online through PSAHelpline.ph, allowing you to focus on the spiritual significance of these milestones in your child's life. As we Filipinos continue to embrace our faith, these sacraments serve as a testament to the enduring power of God's love in our lives.
