What is Baptism?

Baptism is a sacrament of initiation. It represents a new beginning for a Catholic person. When a child or adult is baptized, he or she becomes a child of God and his or her original sin is washed away.

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What is original sin?

Original sin came into the world when Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden. Catholics believe that everyone is born with this original sin, since we are all descendants of Adam and Eve.

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Is baptism only for babies? Most of the time, Catholic parents have their children baptized when they are babies, but it can happen at any age to anyone. In fact, most of the Biblical figures who were baptized were adults, not children! [back to the top]

What happens during a baptism?

When a person is baptized, a priest pours water over the person's head and says, "I baptize you in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit." This happens either in or over a basin known as the baptismal font. Usually, parents and godparents attend the baptism ceremony and speak for the child, saying that the child wants to become a child of God and a member of the Catholic church.

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What are godparents?

Traditionally, godparents are chosen to take care of a child in the event that the parents are unable to do so. They also help a child or adult who is ready for baptism continue to develop his or her Catholic faith. According to Church law, at least one godparent must be a practicing, confirmed Catholic.

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What is the water for? The water is a symbol of original sin being washed away. Also, this is the way the first baptisms were performed and the tradition is continued to this day. [back to the top]