Baptism

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 sons and daughters 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).

Incorporated into Christ by baptism, the person baptized is configured to Christ. Baptism seals the Christian with the indelible spiritual mark (character) of his belonging to Christ. No sin can erase this mark, even if sin prevents baptism from bearing the fruits of salvation. Given once for all, baptism cannot be repeated (CCC § 1272).

There are six rituals in the Rite of Baptism which teach us the meaning of baptism:

• Reception and the Sign of the Cross: the imprint of the cross on the child’s forehead reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice by which we are saved.
• Reading from Scripture: God’s revealed Word is spoken with the purpose of asking for a faith response, a faith that implies conversion to Christ and obedience to His Word.
• Exorcism and Anointing: Jesus is about to liberate the child from evil. A prayer of exorcism is recited to loosen the child from the power of Satan. The priest or deacon anoints the child with the Oil of Catechumens. On behalf of the child, the parents and godparents renounce Satan and profess the faith of the Church.
• The Essential Rite of Baptism: The child is either immersed three times in water, or water is poured three times on the head. The priest or deacon says, “N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” This brings about freedom from all sin, original and personal up to this point in the child’s life, and entry into the life of the Trinity.
• Anointing with Chrism: The priest or deacon anoints the newly baptized child with the Oil of Chrism to symbolize the person’s internal anointing and incorporation into the life of Christ who is priest, prophet and king.
• White Garment and Candle: The white garment shows that the newly baptized has put on Jesus Christ. The candle (lit from the Easter candle) represents the light of Christ that now shines in the baptized.

Baptism Policy and Schedule                    Choosing Godparents

For baptism inquiries please contact the parish office:

(907) 474-9032