Hey there,
A few years ago, my church moved the baptismal font from the private room in the back of the church to the front near the altar. And they incorporated Baptisms into the Mass, right after the Homily.
I liked the change because it’s a blessing to witness the working of the Holy Spirit, and welcoming a new member into our church. And it’s a reminder of our own initiation into the faith.
It never gets old.
Even though Baptisms are ancient. Did you know that Baptisms were performed thousands of years before Jesus Christ? They were a little different back then, until John the Baptist came along. The Baptisms he performed took on a whole new form and meaning … that we still follow today.
Baptism is the first of the seven Holy Sacraments. It’s the foundation that the others are built on. The one we need before receiving any other Sacrament.
Not only are we initiated into the church through Baptism, but we are endowed with Grace by the Holy Spirit and we are given our Catholic Mission. So it’s important for us to understand what Baptism is all about.
This week Genuflect shines the light on the Sacrament of Baptism: its rich history, what it is, its many symbols, how to be a Godparent, and much more.
If you were baptized as a baby, you don’t have a memory of the event. But we are still called to live out our baptismal calling every day. Here’s what you need to know.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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genuflect: resources
The History of Baptisms
How long have Baptisms been around? John the Baptist was performing them before Jesus stepped into the river Jordan with him. Father Dave Dwyer explains Baptisms had been around for thousands of years, but John the Baptist changed the meaning of the ritual. Here’s how.
The History of Baptisms | Busted Halo
Catholic Baptism Guide
Here’s everything you need to know about Baptism: what it is, its symbolisms, why it’s important and more.
The Ultimate Guide to Catholic Baptism | Ascension Press
The Liturgy of Baptism
There are 8 major elements in the Baptismal ceremony. The Diocese of Savannah breaks down each one for us so we’ll understand what they are and what they mean.
The Liturgy of Baptism | The Roman Catholic Diocese of Savannah
Why Baptize Babies?
Parents ask for their baby to be Baptized based on their own faith. John Salza makes the case for this type of request, why it’s needed, and the historical comparison.
Why Does The Church Baptize Babies? | Simply Catholic
Baptism Includes an Exorcism
Did you know that during the Rite of Baptism, the Priest performs an exorcism? Of course, it’s not the kind you see in the movies. But since we’re all born with original sin, which originates from the devil, it is necessary. Here’s what you might have missed.
Did You Know The Baptismal Rite Includes an Exorcism? | ChurchPOP
Let The Child Decide?
We all probably know a family who decided not to baptize their baby in favor of letting the child decide. It may sound like a good idea … or is it? Read this if you’re tempted to forego your baby’s baptism.
Baptism: Should we Impose it or Let The Child Decide? | Aleteia
Live Out Your Baptismal Call
In our Baptism we are called to be Priest, Prophet, and King. But what does this mean in reality as we go about our daily lives? Grace Bellon explains what this means … and gives us some practical ways to do it.
How to Live Out Your Baptismal Call of Priest, Prophet, And King | Blessed is She
How to be a Godparent
Godparents play an important part in a child’s Baptism. But the responsibility does not end there. What should you do as a Godparent throughout your Godchild’s life? If you’re blessed to be someone’s Godparent, you’ll want to check out these 7 ways to ensure you’re a good Godparent.
7 Ways to be a Godparent | Catholic Link
Jesus’ Baptism Site
John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the river Jordan. But where in the Jordan? Here’s what we know … and a slideshow.
Rediscovering Jesus’ Baptism Site | Aleteia
genuflect: related
We covered the other Sacraments of the Catholic Church, so you can take a deeper dive into each one:
Receiving Grace From The Sacraments
Driving Graces With The Sacrament of Confirmation
Joining With Christ in The Sacrament of Communion
Celebrating The Sacrament of Matrimony
Utilizing The Sacrament of Confession
Studying The Sacrament of Holy Orders
Requesting The Sacrament of The Anointing of The Sick
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Inspiration on Your Desktop And Phone
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