Baptism

What Is Baptism?

Baptism is the first Sacrament of Christian initiation.

Through Baptism, a person is cleansed from sin, reborn as a child of God, united to Jesus Christ, and incorporated into His Church.

Baptism is not merely a symbol. It truly gives grace and begins the Christian life.

“Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Ghost, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” — John 3:5

Why Do We Need Baptism?

Human beings are born in need of salvation.

Because of sin, we need to be cleansed, healed, and brought into communion with God.

Baptism is the ordinary way Christ gave His Church for entering the new life of grace.

“He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved.” — Mark 16:16

Biblical Foundations

Baptism comes from Jesus Christ Himself.

After His Resurrection, Jesus commanded His Apostles to baptize all nations.

“Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” — Matthew 28:19

In the Acts of the Apostles, Baptism is the normal response to receiving the Gospel.

“Do penance, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of your sins.” — Acts 2:38

What Happens in Baptism?

Baptism has real spiritual effects.

• Original sin is washed away.
• Personal sins are forgiven.
• Sanctifying grace is received.
• The person becomes a child of God.
• The person becomes a member of Christ’s Church.
• The soul receives an indelible spiritual mark.

Baptism begins a new life in Christ.

Baptism and New Birth

Jesus described Baptism as being born again of water and the Holy Ghost.

This new birth is not physical. It is spiritual.

Through Baptism, God gives new life to the soul and brings the baptized person into His family.

Baptism and the Church

Baptism incorporates us into the Body of Christ, which is the Church.

The baptized person becomes part of God’s people and shares in the life, worship, and mission of the Church.

“For in one Spirit were we all baptized into one body.” — 1 Corinthians 12:13

Infant Baptism

Catholics baptize infants because Baptism is a gift of grace, not something earned.

Just as children can receive natural life before they understand it, they can receive supernatural life through Baptism before they fully understand it.

Parents and godparents promise to help the child grow in the faith.

As the child matures, he or she is called to personally embrace and live the faith received in Baptism.

Who Can Baptize?

Normally, Baptism is celebrated by a bishop, priest, or deacon.

In case of necessity, anyone can baptize if they use water and intend to do what the Church does.

The proper form is:

“I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.”

Baptism Can Be Received Only Once

Baptism places an indelible spiritual mark on the soul.

Because of this, Baptism cannot be repeated.

A person validly baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost is truly baptized.

Common Misunderstandings

Baptism Is Not Merely Symbolic

Baptism uses water as a sign, but it truly gives grace and washes away sin.

Baptism Does Not Mean We Never Sin Again

Baptism gives new life, but Christians must still grow in holiness and resist sin.

Infant Baptism Is Not Forced Faith

Infant Baptism gives grace. The child is later called to personally live and profess the faith.

Baptism Is Not Repeated

Because Baptism leaves a permanent spiritual mark, it is received only once.

Key Truths About Baptism

• Baptism is the first Sacrament of Christian initiation.
• Baptism was instituted by Christ.
• Baptism washes away sin.
• Baptism gives sanctifying grace.
• Baptism makes us children of God.
• Baptism incorporates us into the Church.
• Baptism leaves an indelible spiritual mark.
• Baptism can be received only once.

What Does This Mean For Me?

Baptism is the beginning of new life in Christ.

Through Baptism, God claims us as His children and calls us to live as disciples of Jesus.

If you are baptized, your life has been marked by grace and mission.

If you are not baptized, Baptism is the doorway into the Christian life and the life of the Church.

Explore the Sacraments

Continue Learning

Now that you understand Baptism, the next question is: What is Confirmation?

Learn how the Holy Ghost strengthens Christians to live and witness to the faith.