Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament we receive as Catholics. Baptism is a Sacrament of Initiation. Baptism is usually performed on young children however, some adults receive the sacrament as well. Baptism is usually performed by either a deacon, a priest, or a bishop (the ordinary ministers). In cases of emergency, anyone can baptize as long as they do it in the correct way. Any unbaptized person can receive this sacrament. This includes unbaptized infants, converts to the faith and newborn infants. You can be baptized only once.
The Effect of the sacrament is the removal of Original and actual sin. Baptism helps in being "born again in Christ." Brings us into the Body of Christ. This sacrament serves at the doorway or path into the Church. It places an indelible seal upon our souls.
The Matter of Baptism is water. When someone is being baptized they will either be fully immersed into the water or it will be poured over their head. The words: "I baptize you in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." are the Form for baptism. A candle is used to show that we are called to be the "light of Christ" in the world. We wear a white garment to demonstrate the we show "put on the purity of Christ." We receive the oil (or chrism) to show that we receive the seal of the Holy Spirit.
The Effect of the sacrament is the removal of Original and actual sin. Baptism helps in being "born again in Christ." Brings us into the Body of Christ. This sacrament serves at the doorway or path into the Church. It places an indelible seal upon our souls.
The Matter of Baptism is water. When someone is being baptized they will either be fully immersed into the water or it will be poured over their head. The words: "I baptize you in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." are the Form for baptism. A candle is used to show that we are called to be the "light of Christ" in the world. We wear a white garment to demonstrate the we show "put on the purity of Christ." We receive the oil (or chrism) to show that we receive the seal of the Holy Spirit.