Sacraments of Initiation

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Sacraments of Initiation

• Baptism

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Sacraments of Initiation

• The sacraments of initiation are Baptism,
  Confirmation, and Eucharist.
• They are the foundations of the Christian life.
• They are closely related in each we receive the
  Holy Spirit and His gifts.
• Each has its special symbols and effects.

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Primary effects of the Sacraments of Initiation

• Baptism beginning of new life in Christ
• Confirmation strengthening us to live more
  fully Christs call to serve
• Eucharist nourish us to live as Christs
  disciples as we journey through life

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History of Baptism

• Water in the Old Testament creation, the flood,
  Red Sea,
• New Testament Baptism of Jesus, Nicodemus,
  Ascension
• Baptism first sacrament celebrated in the early
  church (Acts of the Apostles)
• Concentrated on adult converts

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History of Baptism

• By the second and third centuries, programs for
  preparation for Baptism evolved
• Catechumenate preparation involving study,
  prayer, fasting, and service over several years
• Each catechumen would have a sponsor.
• Baptism by immersion took place during the Easter
  Vigil, presided over by the Bishop.
• Confirmation and Eucharist also celebrated at
  this time.

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Baptism of infants

• Baptism of infants became popular around the
  fourth century.
• Doctrine of original sin affected the practice of
  infant baptism.
• Priests began baptizing the bishop would come
  later for Confirmation.

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RCIA

• Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
• Process by which adults become members of the
  Catholic church. It lasts for a year or more.
• Catechumens prepare by study and involvement in
  the parish.
• The sacraments of initiation are received at the
  Easter Vigil.

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Effects of Baptism

• Welcome into the Christian community.
• Forgiveness of sins original sin and any other
  sins we have committed
• Born into new life marked by the sacramental
  character which is indelible and cannot be
  repeated.
• Reception of the Holy Spirit
• Necessary for salvation baptism of water,
  blood, and desire

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Baptismal rite

• Essential symbol blessed water poured over the
  person (or immersion in the water) and the words,
  I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of
  the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
• Minister priest or deacon or anyone in an
  emergency
• Symbols baptismal promises, candle, white robe,
  anointing with Chrism