While not a requirement of Canon Law, registration is the practice within the US and is helpful for a number of reasons. First, it is a commitment on your part to practice your faith. Second, it enables the pastor, clergy, and staff to better know, welcome, and serve parishioners. Third, it makes it easier to obtain eligibility letters/certificates for being a godparent or sponsor. To see more reasons than these, go to the Why Is Parish Registration Important? page.