There are several parts to the rite of Baptism:
The sign of the cross is traced on the forehead of the person being baptised. This reminds us that Jesus' death and resurrection is at the heart of our faith.
Water is poured over the head of the person being baptised. Water is a sign of the new life we are beginning with Jesus as members of the Church. It also reminds us of how Moses led the Israelites on their escape from Egypt and how he parted the waters of the Red Sea as he led God's people away from slavery and into the Promised Land.
The words of Baptism, “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” are spoken while the water is poured over the person's head. These words remind us of our belief in the Trinity and its importance in our journey of faith.
The words of Baptism, “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” are spoken while the water is poured over the person's head. These words remind us of our belief in the Trinity and its importance in our journey of faith.
Anointing with the oil of chrism reminds us that we are chosen and set-apart to carry out a special ask for God – to be carriers of his love and light to others. Oil is also a sign of strength and we ask for God's help while we strive to become more like Jesus.
A white garment is wrapped around the person being baptised and this symbolises that the person has 'put on Christ' and is trying to be more like Christ.
Finally a candle (Baptism candle) is lit from the Paschal Candle and this represents the one true light of Christ, a light to guide the new believer throughout his or her life.
A short clip of a longer DVD about Baptism. All parishes will have their own Baptism programme and parents seeking baptism for their child, or adults seeking baptism for themselves should speak to the priest or catechists at their church.
