The origins of the rite
Christian baptism has its roots in the New Testament, and is closely related to Jesus Christ. In the Gospels, Jesus went to the Jordan River to be baptised by John the Baptist. This event represents a key moment in the history of Christianity, and it introduces baptism as a symbol of purification, rebirth, and adherence to the faith.
The important roles of godparents
The choice of the godparents is a significant moment, because these figures will support the person baptised on their journey of faith, taking on a key role in their religious education and their integration into the Christian community.
The steps of the ceremony
Baptism celebrations may vary depending on the different cultures and traditions, but the ritual follows certains essential steps that are universal. The first step is the welcoming and preparation. The celebrant welcomes the baptismal candidate, the parents, godparents, and all those present in the church, and then begins the celebration with the opening prayer and the preparations for the rite. During the second step, the celebrant invites the one being baptised, together with their godparents, to renounce Satan and profess their faith in the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. In the third step, the celebrant blesses the baptismal water with a prayer, and administers the sacrament by pouring it on the head of the baptismal candidate for three times: in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Afterwards, the forehead of the newly baptised is anointed with sacred oil, symbolising the Holy Ghost’s descent.
The final rites include:
- the newly baptised donning the white garment, symbol of purity and innocence, which represents the new life that starts with baptism;
- consigning the baptismal candle, a sign of Christ’s light illuminating the person baptised’s path;
- the celebrant addressing the final blessing to all those present.
In the Christian faith, baptism has several meanings:
- purification from original sin
- spiritual rebirth
- belonging to the Christian community
- death and resurrection of Christ
- gift of the Holy Ghost
The symbols of baptism
Baptism is a rite rich in symbols that universally convey its meaning. Let’s find out together what they are.
- Water: symbol of purification, rebirth, and new life. Immersion or affusion of water on the forehead represent washing sin away and entering the Christian life.
- Sacred oil: symbol of the Holy Ghost that gives the person baptised the fortitude and guidance necessary to lead a Christian life.
- Baptismal candle: with its light coming from the Easter candle, it represents Christ’s light that illuminates the person baptised’s path as a reminder of God’s presence in their life.
- White garment: it represents the new life gained through baptism, and symbolises purity and innocence.
Just like baptism, every other Christian rite is full of symbols, which you can find in a lot of our products.
