CORE ELEMENTS ACROSS ALL VARIANTS/DENOMINATIONS
Across the different denominations of Christianity there are a variety of aspects included in the ritual of baptism. The core elements, shared across the spectrum of Christian practice are the baptism with water and the profession of faith by or on behalf of the person being baptised.
Other elements frequently included in Baptism:
- Readings from the bible
- A sermon or homily from presiding minister
- Tracing the sign of the cross on the forehead of the person being baptised
- Anointing with oil
- Prayers for the candidate
- Clothing in a white garment
- Presentation of a lighted baptismal candle
Most churches baptise infants but some insist on adult baptism. Within Christianity, it is usually performed by a member of the clergy in a ‘church’ setting.
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SIGNIFICANCE: Baptism is a key part of becoming a Christian. It is the ‘first step’ of initiation into the Christian faith. For example, in some denominations, an adherents has to be baptised in order to undertake other sacraments. It is the welcoming of an individual into the Church. Practicing baptism in a public setting is a testimony of the person’s faith and an expression of their covenantal union with Christ. |
Created by N. Usher for Gilroy Catholic College, 2014.