BULLETIN 31 Baptism and sacred rites.

Greetings to everyone. Jesus' spoken word to the disciples on Baptism, before he departed,and prior to his crucifiction, is revealed in Matthew 28:19-20, 'Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."

This message is for all people and reveals the great importance that Jesus placed on the sacred act of Baptism (see Luke 3:21. His was of the Holy Spirit. See Acts 2:38. Baptism imprints an indelible spiritual sign, preparing the person for incorporation into the church and is not repeated. Baptism is a path that purifies, justifies and sanctifies. It is understood that water has this sacred and sanctifying effect if in the right spiritual circumstances, John 1:31-33.

Today, Baptism often seems to be incorrectly regarded just as a symbolic act and mysterious for some people, not sacred, just something that is routinely done without much real understanding. But it's according to the Lord's will, (as a sacred rite signifying the birth into Christianity). The Lord himself affirmed Baptism necessary for salvation. When the adult candidate submits to the Lord and shares in the priesthood of Christ it is with humility and obedience. Different gifts of the Holy Spirit come to those chosen by the Lord .- see 1 Corinthians 11:6-12.

For the grace of Baptism to unfold the help of the child's parents is very important, as also is the support of the Godfather and Godmother, sometimes it's overlooked. Preferably all should be firm believers, able and ready to help the child or adult, on the road of Christian life. This should involve transition to church attendance and introduction to true freedom. Baptism along with faith brings sanctifying grace. And spiritual grace does make one justified. It gives forgiveness of sins committed up to that point, that is personal sins as well as original sin. Since the earliest times Baptism has been administered to children, for it is a grace and gift of God that does not predispose any human merit.

In a case of necessity any person can Baptise, provided that they have the appropriate intentions and do what the church does. They pour water on the candidate's head while saying "I Baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the son and of the Holy Spirit." The rest must of course follow for spiritual incorporation into Christianity. The whole of the Christian community of the church bears some responsibility for the development and safeguarding of the grace given in Baptism. See 1 Corinthians 12:13

In conclusion: The fruit of Baptism is a reality that includes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins. It is birth into the new life by which a man or woman becomes an adoptive child of the Father, a member of Christ and a temple of the Holy Spirit, sharing in the priesthood of Christ. It is hoped this bulletin is helpful.

Good wishes to everyone, AMEN.

srd