Baptism

Question 1

What is Baptism?

Answer 1

• first steps towards Christ, brings new life
• when original sin in cleansed/free salvation offered by God
• only done once (Catechism 1280)

Question 2

What are the parts/rituals?

Answer 2

Preparation (parents and Godparents gather with the celebrant)
Buildup (calling us to be disciples, liturgy of the Word, Homily, prayers of the faithful)
Transformation (prayer of exorcism, child is anointed with the Oil of Catechumens and then oil of Chrism of poured onto its head and chest - baptized)
Wind-down (candle lit through the pascal candle)
Return (Lord’s prayer, hear and speak Jesus)

Question 3

What does the baptism resemble?

Answer 3

Immersion - buried with God/when Jesus died, burying our sins
Rising from the water - resurrection, being born again

Question 4

Symbols?

Answer 4

Water - renews, washes away (original) sin
Oil of Chrism - Holy Spirit and its gifts
White garment - purity/brand new life, cleansed, light in the world with Jesus
Candle - faith that enlightens us, light of Christ

Question 5

Scripture references - Matthew 3:16-17

Answer 5

16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Question 6

Scripture references - Samuel 16:13

Answer 6

13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.

Question 7

Scripture references - Galatians 3:27

Answer 7

27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

Question 8

Scripture references - John 8:12

Answer 8

12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”