Symbols of Baptism Theology
Symbols of Baptism Theology
Symbols of Baptism Theology
Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other
sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we
become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her
mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."
1) Water is the primary symbol of baptism. John the Baptist used water (Mt 3:11; Mk
1:8a; Jn 1:33; 3:23), as did Jesus (Jn 3:22). Jesus is living water (Jn 4:10), and
when Jesus died, the water that flowed from his pierced side serves as a wellspring
of his life and grace (Jn 19:34). The usual method is infusion, for water to be
poured over the head. Baptism can also be done by partial or full immersion.
2) Oil is another baptismal symbol of the Holy Spirit. During a baptism, the baby
is anointed with oil, and oil is mentioned several times in the Bible as a symbol
of bringing the person and the Holy Spirit together. Holy oils are used during
baptism to strengthen the faith of the anointed. They also symbolize the gifts of
the Holy Spirit.
3) Baptismal garment/ White Clothing is either worn from the beginning of the
ritual or given after pouring or immersion. It is an outward sign of the person�s
Christian dignity. It also signifies that the person has become a new creation and
has been clothed with Christ.
5) Dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. When Jesus was baptized, the heavens were
opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove, and every
person who is baptized receives the same Holy Spirit. Jesus baptizes with the Holy
Spirit (Mk 1:8; Jn 1:33).
6) The Baptismal Font. The traditional baptismal font holds the water used for the
baptism. It symbolizes the baptismal streams, rivers, or pools of water in
centuries past, like the River of Jordan where Christ was baptized by John the
Baptist. Baptismal fonts are made of stone, metal, wood, or marble and have usually
been present in the church for generations.
The prayers during the baptismal ceremony beg freedom from sin for the child and
ask for Christ's protection, blessings, mercy and grace on the child, the parents,
the godparents, the family, and the congregation.
References:
http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p2s2c1a1.htm
https://thecatholicspirit.com/faith/focus-on-faith/faith-fundamentals/the-symbols-
of-baptism/
https://baby.lovetoknow.com/baptism/baptism-symbols