Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 195 - Part VIII.

 

YOUCAT Question n. 195 - Part VIII. How is Baptism administered?     

(Youcat answer - repeated) The classical form of administering Baptism is the threefold immersion of the candidate in the water. Usually, however, water is poured three times over the head of the candidate, while the minister of the sacrament speaks the words, “N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”        

A deepening through CCC 

(CCC  1244 b)  The Latin Church, which reserves admission to Holy Communion to those who have attained the age of reason, expresses the orientation of Baptism to the Eucharist by having the newly baptized child brought to the altar for the praying of the Our Father.      

Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) Water symbolizes cleansing and new life, which was already expressed in the baptism of repentance performed by John the Baptist. The Baptism that is administered with water “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” is more than a sign of conversion and repentance; it is new life in Christ. That is why the ceremony also includes the signs of anointing, the white garment, and the baptismal candle.      

(CCC Comment)    

(CCC 1245) The solemn blessing concludes the celebration of Baptism. At the Baptism of newborns the blessing of the mother occupies a special place.        

(The next question is: Who can be baptized, and what is required of a candidate?)