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 of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission. The Catechism teaches that Baptism is necessary for salvation for those to whom the Gospel has been proclaimed and who have had the possibility of asking for this sacrament.

Christ instituted Baptism by his own baptism in the Jordan and by his command to the apostles: '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' (Matthew 28:19).

form

I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

matter

Natural water poured upon the head (or by immersion).

Ordinary minister: bishop, priest, or deacon. In case of necessity, any person, even a non-baptized one, with the required intention.

Every person not yet baptized, and only such a person, is able to be baptized.

• Forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins
• Birth into the new life by which we become adoptive sons of the Father, members of Christ, and temples of the Holy Spirit
• Incorporation into the Church and configuration to her mission
• An indelible spiritual mark (character) on the soul

See the parish RCIA / OCIA office or your pastor for catechetical preparation.

• CCC 1213-1284