Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament of Christian initiation. Through water and the Holy Spirit, the baptized are born anew as children of God and welcomed into the Church.
What is Baptism?
The basis of the whole Christian life (CCC 1213).
Holy 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 and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission (CCC 1213).
The essential rite of the sacrament consists in immersing the candidate in water or pouring water on his head, while invoking the Most Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit (CCC 1239–1240).
Born with a fallen human nature and tainted by original sin, children also have need of the new birth in Baptism. The Church therefore baptizes infants, so that they may be freed from the power of darkness and brought into the realm of the freedom of the children of God (CCC 1250).
Signs & effects
What the Church teaches Baptism gives (CCC 1262–1274).
Forgiveness of sins
All sins are forgiven: original sin and, for adults, all personal sins.
CCC 1263A child of God
The baptized becomes a new creature, an adopted son or daughter of God.
CCC 1265Sanctifying grace
Grace that enables us to believe in God, hope in Him and love Him, and to grow in goodness.
CCC 1266Member of the Church
Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ and incorporates us into the Church.
CCC 1267Sharers in Christ
The baptized share in the priesthood of Christ and in His prophetic and royal mission.
CCC 1268An indelible seal
Baptism seals the Christian with a spiritual mark of belonging to Christ; it cannot be repeated.
CCC 1272Who may receive Baptism
Every person not yet baptized, and only such a person, is able to be baptized (CCC 1246).
- Infants, at the request of their parents, who promise to bring the child up in the faith.CCC 1250–1251
- Children who have reached the age of reason and adults, after a period of preparation (the catechumenate).CCC 1247–1249
- A person who has not already been baptized; Baptism cannot be repeated.CCC 1272
- A godfather and/or godmother: firm believers, able and ready to help the newly baptized on the road of Christian life.CCC 1255
How to prepare
Parents and godparents prepare to welcome the child into the faith (CCC 1255).
Contact the parish early
Speak to the parish office about baptism dates before making other arrangements.
Pre-baptism preparation
Parents and godparents attend the parish’s preparation session when asked.
Choose godparents
Practising Catholics who have received Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist.
Documents
The child’s birth certificate and the parents’ details; the parish will tell you what else is needed.
At Minor Basilica Our Lady of Arabia
The schedule and requirements of Minor Basilica Our Lady of Arabia, Ahmadi.
Parish details coming soon
The schedule and the requirements for this sacrament at Minor Basilica Our Lady of Arabia will be published here soon. Until then, please contact the parish office.