Baptism

"Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit,
 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."
-- Matthew 28:19-20

Commissioned by Christ, and enacted in the name of the Trinity, this first sacrament of Christian initiation incorporates new members into the church and into the mystery of Jesus Christ. This ritual act, using the sacramentals of water and oil, confers grace, the priesthood of the baptized, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

This sacrament is called Baptism, after the central rite by which it is carried out: to baptize (Greek baptizein) means to "plunge" or "immerse." The "plunge" into the water symbolizes the catechumen's burial into Christ's death, from which he rises up by resurrection with him, as "a new creature." It signifies and actually brings about death to sin and entry into the life of the Most Holy Trinity through configuration to the Paschal mystery of Christ.

If you want to know more about Baptism or if you wish to join the Catholic Church, please email  sobrien@mail.barry.edu or call 305-899-3650.