The Rite of Baptism
Like Paul, every Christian is baptized. We believe that Baptism is necessary for our Salvation because it brings us close to God and frees us from Original Sin. When people asked the first Christians in Jerusalem what they needed to do to be saved, Peter answered, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ…” (Acts of the Apostles 2:38) Peter was chosen by Jesus to lead his Church. We trust what Peter says.
Baptism celebration
Baptism is celebrated according to a rite, with its own special prayers, objects, and elements. The Rite of Baptism centers on the immersion, or the pouring of water. Water is essential for life. We forget this sometimes because water is more easily available to many people today. The Jews and early Christians in Palestine spent a lot of time in the desert. They knew how precious water was.
Who performs the Rite of Baptism
The Rite of Baptism is usually performed by a bishop, priest, or deacon. However, in extraordinary situations of necessity, anyone can baptize if he or she has the intention of doing what the Church does. He or she must also pour water over the candidate’s head saying, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Like all Catholic rites, the Rite of Baptism opens with the Sign of the Cross. The Gospel is then proclaimed through a reading from Scripture. The priest or deacon anoints the person with oil of catechumens. The baptismal water is then blessed, and the person (or the infant’s parents and godparents) renounces Satan and professes the beliefs of our Catholic faith.
Essential Rite of Baptism
Next, the essential Rite of Baptism takes place. It is called “essential” because it is the one part of the rite that is necessary for a person to be baptized. The priest or deacon pours water over the person’s head, or he or she is immersed in water. As water flows over the person, the priest or deacon says, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Anointing with holy Chrism
The Rite of Baptism continues with the anointing with holy Chrism. The person is then draped in a white garment to symbolize the “putting on of Christ” and given a white candle to symbolize Christ’s light in the world. Once a person is baptized, he or she carries the light into the world and begins a new life in Christ.
Baptism significance
Baptism is birth into the new life in Christ and welcomes us into the Church.
