Baptism.
This word means a washing. Baptism is is the most necessary of all the Sacraments, as without it we cannot be saved or receive any of the others;
it is the beginning of our spiritual life. There are three kinds of Baptism
- Baptism of water, which is the Sacrament;
- Baptism of desire;
- Baptism of blood, or martyrdom.
A person may be baptized when there is a doubt about a former Baptism. The words, ‘If thou art not already baptized’, are added to the
usual form. This is called Conditional Baptism.
Outward sign.
The matter is water blessed on Holy Saturday and is applied in three ways
- by immersion, or being dipped in the water;
- effusion, of having the water poured on the person;
- aspersion, or being sprinkled with the water.
Baptism by effusion is the mode chiefly in use, The form consists of the words, ‘I baptize’, etc.
Effects.
Cleanses the soul from original sin, and actual sin, if any: remits both the temporal and eternal punishment; gives habitual or sanctifying grace.
Institution.
When instituted, not quite certain; but became of obligation after the Resurrection, when our Lord said to His Apostles, ‘Going therefore, teach ye all nations; baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Spirit’, (Matt. 28:19)
Minister.
A priest; in case of necessity, any other person.
Christians.
Followers of Christ. At Antioch, in Syria, the disciples were first named Christians. (Acts 11:26)
