Baptism is an example of a sacrament. A sacrament is a visible sign of God's loving, invisible presence with a child as s/he joins the Christian community.
1. Welcome
Priest meets parents, godparents and child at church entrance.
Priest traces sign of the cross on child's forehead.
This symbolizes that the child belongs to God.
2. Bible Readings
and Sermon
Word of God in the Bible.
Readings from the New Testament.
Describe Jesus' Baptism.
Short sermon from priest.
Prayers of the Faithful for child,
parent and godparents.
3. Exorcism and
Anointing
Priest anoints child's chest using catechumen.
Oil symbolizes strength and healing
Prayer that child will be protected against evil.
4. Baptismal
Promises
Priest blesses water in baptismal font.
Parents and godparents make promises on behalf of child.
Question and answer format
Christian teaching found in the Apostles' Creed
5. Baptism
Water poured 3 times over the baby's head.
Symbolizes child entering new life in the family of God.
"I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
6. Anointing with Chrism
Child is anointed on the head with chrism.
Symbolizes that the child has been chosen by God to live a Christian life.
7. White Garment and
Baptismal Candle
White shawl wrapped around the baby.
Symbol of new life clothed in Jesus Christ.
Candle is lit from the Pascal candle.
Symbolizes Christ's guidance in the child's life
to live and practice the Christian Faith.