2. Background Together with Confirmation and Eucharist, Baptism is part of the Sacrament of Initiation Lays the foundations of every Christian life To baptize comes from the Greek baptizeinwhich means to “plunge” or “immerse”; plunging into water symbolizes the catechumen’s burial into Christ’s death, from which he rises up by resurrection with him as a new creature
4. Prefiguration in the Old Covenant Great Flood Crossing of the Red Sea Crossing of the Jordan River
5. Christ’s Baptism Beginning of Jesus’ public life after having been baptized by John the Baptist After his resurrection, he gave his mission to the apostles to “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” Christ’s Passover (Mk 10:38, Lk 12:50)
6. Baptism in the Church The Church has celebrated and administered Baptism from the very day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38) According to Paul, the believers enter through Baptism into communion with Christ’s death, is buried with him, and rises with him (Rom 6:3-4)
7. Mystagogy of the celebration (Initiation into the mystery of Christ) Sign of the cross – marks with the imprint of Christ the one who is going to belong to him and signifies the grace of redemption Christ won for us by his cross Proclamation of the word of God – enlightens the candidates and assembly with the revealed truth and elicits the response of faith
8. Mystagogy Cont. Exorcism – Baptism signifies liberation from sin and from its instigator, the devil Baptismal water –Baptism is performed by triple immersion in the baptismal water; however from the ancient times, it has also been conferred by pouring water three times over the candidate’s head Trinitarian Formula –“N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”
9. Mystagogy Cont. Anointing with sacred chrism – signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit White garment – symbolized that the person baptized has “put on Christ” (has risen with Christ) Candle – signifies that Christ has enlightened the neophyte
10. Mystagogy Cont. First Holy Communion – admittance to the marriage supper of the Lamb Solemn Blessing – concludes the celebration
11. Grace of Baptism For the forgiveness of sins Becoming “a new creature” Incorporation into the Church, the Body of Christ Sacramental bond of the unity of Christians An indelible spiritual mark
12. Frequently Asked Questions Is baptism necessary for salvation? What about those who die who haven’t been baptized? Why do we still sin after we’re baptized?
