Rite of Baptism for One Child
In the light of verbal indications given to several episcopal Conferences, texts in this rite affected by the new translation of the Roman Missal into English are appended and indicated by the abbreviation ‘NTRM’. Users are requested to consult their local Ordinary, or abide by guidelines issued by him, in determining which text to use.
The General Introduction to Christian Initiation and the Introduction to the Baptism of Children can be found in the Readings for Baptism found in the ‘Rites’ section of the iBreviary.
Texts marked with an (L) indicate that a Latin text is available after the English text, and may be accessed by scrolling down after the English text. Users, especially of the Blackberry and iPhone/iPad applications, are reminded that they may scroll up to the top of the screen (press ‘T’ on BB, tap the status bar at the top of the screen on the iPod/iPad) for faster navigation using the index of quick links given below.
INTRODUCTORY RITES
Reception of the Child
LITURGY OF THE WORD
Readings and Homily
Intercessions 1 2 3 4 5
Invocation of the Saints
Prayer of Exorcism (L)
Anointing before Baptism (L)
CELEBRATION OF THE SACRAMENT (L)
Blessing and Invocation of God over Baptismal Water
Form A: English Latin
Form B: English Latin
Form C: English Latin
Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith
Baptism (L)
EXPLANATORY RITES
Anointing after Baptism (L)
Clothing with the White Garment
Lighted Candle (L)
Ephphetha or Prayer over ears and mouth (L)
CONCLUSION OF THE RITE
Lord’s Prayer
Blessing (L)
RECEPTION OF THE CHILD
72. If possible, baptism should take place on Sunday, the day on which the Church celebrates the paschal mystery. It should be conferred in a communal celebration in the presence of the faithful, or at least of relatives, friends, and neighbors, who are all to take an active part in the rite.
73. It is the role of the father and mother, accompanied by the godparents, to present the child to the Church for baptism.
74. The people may sing a psalm or hymn suitable for the occasion. Meanwhile the celebrating priest or deacon, vested in alb or surplice, with a stole (with or without a cope) of festive color, and accompanied by the ministers, goes to the entrance of the church or to that part of the church where the parents and godparents are waiting with the child.
75. The celebrant greets all present, and especially the parents and godparents, reminding them briefly of the joy with which the parents welcomed this child as a gift from God, the source of life, who now wishes to bestow his own life on this little one.
76. First the celebrant questions the parents:
Celebrant: What name do you give your child? (or: have you given?)
Parents: N.
Celebrant: What do you ask of God’s Church for N.?
Parents: Baptism.
The celebrant may choose other words for this dialogue. The first reply may be given by someone other than the parents if local custom gives him the right to name the child.
In the second response the parents may use other words, such as, “faith,” or “the grace of Christ,” or “entrance into the Church,” or “eternal life.”
77. The celebrant speaks to the parents in these or similar words:
You have asked to have your child baptized. In doing so you are accepting the responsibility of training him (her) in the practice of the faith. It will be your duty to bring him (her) up to keep God’s commandments as Christ taught us, by loving God and our neighbor. Do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?
Parents: We do.
78. Then the celebrant turns to the godparents and addresses them in these or similar words:
Are you ready to help the parents of this child in their duty as Christian parents?
Godparents: We are.
79. The Celebrant continues:
N., the Christian community welcomes you with great joy. In its name I claim you for Christ our Savior by the sign of his cross. I now trace the cross on your forehead, and invite your parents (and godparents) to do the same.
He signs the child on the forehead, in silence. Then he invites the parents and (if it seems appropriate) the godparents to do the same.
80. The celebrant invites the parents, godparents, and the others to take part in the liturgy of the word. If circumstances permit, there is a procession to the place where this will be celebrated, during which a song is sung e.g., Psalm 85: 7, 8, 9ab.
Will you not give us life;
and shall not your people rejoice in you?
Show us, O Lord, your kindness,
and grant us your salvation.
I will hear what God proclaims;
the Lord—for he proclaims peace to his people.
(If baptism is to be celebrated at Sunday or weekday Mass, the Order of Mass begins here with the Lord have mercy.)
SCRIPTURAL READINGS AND HOMILY
81. One or even two of the following gospel passages are read, during which all may sit, if convenient. Additional options may be found in Readings for Baptism found in the ‘Rites’ Section of the iBreviary
John 3: 1-6: The meeting with Nicodemus.
Matthew 28: 18-20: The apostles are sent to preach the gospel and to baptize.
Mark 1: 9-11: The baptism of Jesus.
Mark 10: 13-16: Let the little children come to me.
+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to John
Jn 3: 1-6
No one can see the Kingdom of God without being born from above.
Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.
He came to Jesus at night and said to him,
“Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God,
for no one can do these signs that you are doing
unless God is with him.”
Jesus answered and said to him,
“Amen, amen, I say to you,
unless one is born from above,
he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.”
Nicodemus said to him,
“How can a man once grown old be born again?
Surely he cannot reenter his mother’s womb and be born again, can he?”
Jesus answered,
“Amen, amen, I say to you,
unless one is born of water and Spirit
he cannot enter the Kingdom of God.
What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew
Mt 28:18-20
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus said to the Eleven disciples:
“All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me.
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father,
and of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit,
teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.
And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark
Mk 1:9-11
Jesus was baptized in the Jordan by John.
Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee
and was baptized in the Jordan by John.
On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open
and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.
And a voice came from the heavens,
“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
+ A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark
Mk 10:13-16
Let the children come to me; do not prevent them.
People were bringing children to him that he might touch them,
but the disciples rebuked them.
When Jesus saw this he became indignant and said to them,
“Let the children come to me; do not prevent them,
for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.
Amen, I say to you,
whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child
will not enter it.”
Then he embraced them and blessed them,
placing his hands on them.
The Gospel of the Lord.
The passages listed in nos. 186-194 and 204-215 may be chosen, or other passages which better meet the wishes or needs of the parents. Between the readings, responsorial psalms or verses may be sung as given in nos. 195-203.
82. After the reading, the celebrant gives a short homily, explaining to those present the significance of what has been read. His purpose will be to lead them to a deeper understanding of the mystery of baptism and to encourage the parents and godparents to ready acceptance of the responsibilities which arise from the sacrament.
83. After the homily, or in the course of or after the litany, it is desirable to have a period of silence while all pray at the invitation of the celebrant. If convenient, a suitable song follows, such as one chosen from nos. 225-245.
Go to the Acclamations and Hymns
INTERCESSIONS
84. Then the prayer of the faithful is said:
Form 1 2 3 4 5
Form 1
Celebrant:
My dear brothers and sisters, let us ask our Lord Jesus Christ to look lovingly on this child who is to be baptized, on his (her) parents and godparents, and on all the baptized.
Assisting Minister: By the mystery of your death and resurrection, bathe this child in light, give him (her) the new life of baptism and welcome him (her) into your holy Church.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting Minister: Through baptism and confirmation, make him (her) your faithful follower and a witness to your gospel.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting Minister: Lead him (her) by a holy life to the joys of God’s kingdom.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting Minister: Make the lives of his (her) parents and godparents examples of faith to inspire this child.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting Minister: Keep his (her) family always in your love.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting Minister: Renew the grace of our baptism in each one of us.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Go to the Invocation of the Saints
Form 2
217. Celebrant: We have been called by the Lord to be a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people he acquired for himself. Let us ask him to show his mercy to this child, who is to receive the graces of baptism, to his (her) parents and godparents, and to all the baptized everywhere.
Assisting minister: Through baptism, bring this child into your Church.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Throughout his (her) life, help him (her) to be a faithful witness to your Son, Jesus Christ, for he (she) is being marked with his cross.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: As he (she) is being buried in the likeness of Christ’s death through baptism, may he (she) also share in the glory of Christ’s resurrection.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Teach him (her) by the words and example of his (her) parents and godparents, and help him (her) to grow strong as a living member of the Church.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May all Christ’s followers, baptized into one body, always live united in faith and love.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Go to the Invocation of the Saints
Form 3
218. Celebrant: My fellow Christians, let us ask the mercy of Jesus Christ our Lord for this child who will receive the gift of baptism, for his (her) parents and godparents and for all baptized persons.
Assisting minister: Through baptism, make this child God’s own son (daughter).
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Help this tender branch grow to be more like you, the true vine, and be your faithful follower.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May he (she) always keep your command, walk in your love, and proclaim your Good News to his (her) fellow men.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May he (she) be counted as God’s friend through your saving work, Lord, Jesus, and may he (she) inherit eternal life.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Inspire all men to share in the new birth of baptism.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Go to the Invocation of the Saints
Form 4
219 Celebrant: We have been called by the Lord to be a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people he acquired for himself. Let us ask him to show his mercy to this child, who is to receive the graces of baptism, to his (her) parents and godparents, and to all the baptized everywhere.
Assisting minister: Through baptism may this child become God’s own beloved son (daughter). We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Once he (she) is born again of water and the Holy Spirit, may he (she) always live in that Spirit, and make his (her) new life known to his (her) fellow men. We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Help him (her) to triumph over the deceits of the devil and the attractions of evil. We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May he (she) love you, Lord, with all his (her) heart, soul, mind and strength, and love his (her) neighbor as himself (herself). We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Help all of us here to be models of faith for this child. We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May all Christ’s faithful people, who receive the sign of the cross at baptism, always and everywhere give witness to him by the way they live. We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord, hear our prayer.
Go to the Invocation of the Saints
Form 5
220 Celebrant: Let us ask Christ’s mercy for this child, his (her) parents and godparents, and all baptized Christians.
Assisting minister: Give him (her) a new birth to eternal life through water and the Holy Spirit.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Help him (her) always to be a living member of your Church.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Inspire him (her) to hear and follow your gospel, and to give witness to you by his (her) life. We ask this, Lord.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May he (she) come with joy to the table of your sacrifice.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Help him (her) to love God and neighbor as you have taught us.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: May he (she) grow in holiness and wisdom by listening to his (her) fellow Christians and by following their example.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
Assisting minister: Let all your followers remain united in faith and love.
All: Lord, hear our prayer.
INVOCATION of the SAINTS
85. The celebrant next invites all present to invoke the saints:
Holy Mary, Mother of God.
All: Pray for us.
Saint John the Baptist.
All: Pray for us.
Saint Joseph.
All: Pray for us.
Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
All: Pray for us.
The names of other saints may be added, especially the patrons of the child to be baptized, and of the church or locality. The litany concludes:
All holy men and women.
All: Pray for us.
PRAYER of EXORCISM
86. After the invocation, the celebrant says:
Almighty and ever-living God,
you sent your only Son into the world
to cast out the power of Satan, spirit of evil,
to rescue man from the kingdom of darkness,
and bring him into the splendor of your kingdom of light.
We pray for this child:
set him (her) free from original sin,
make him (her) a temple of your glory,
and send your Holy Spirit to dwell with him (her).
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
Go to the Anointing before Baptism
[Latin:
Omnípotens sempitérne Deus,
qui Fílium tuum in mundum misísti,
ut Sátanæ, spíritus nequitiæ, a nobis expélleret potestátem,
et hóminem, eréptum e ténebris,
in admirábile lucis tuæ regnum transférret:
te súpplices exorámus,
ut hunc párvulum,
ab origináli labe solútum,
tuæ templum perfícias maiestátis,
et Spíritum Sanctum in eo habitáre indúlgeas.
Per Christum Dominum nostrum.
Omnes: Amen.]
Go to the Anointing before Baptism
Or:
Almighty God,
you sent your only Son
to rescue us from slavery of sin,
and to give us the freedom
only your sons and daughters enjoy.
We now pray for this child
who will have to face the world with its temptations,
and fight the devil in all his cunning.
Your Son died and rose again to save us.
By his victory over sin and death,
cleanse this child from the stain of original sin.
Strengthen him (her) with the grace of Christ,
and watch over him (her) at every step in life’s journey.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
Go to the Anointing before Baptism
[Latin:
Dómine Deus omnípotens,
qui Fílium tuum unigénitum misísti
ut hóminem, peccáti servitúte captívum,
filiórum tuórum libertáte donáres,
te humíllime pro his infantibus deprecámur:
ut, quos scis huius mundi experturos illécebras
et contra diáboli insídias pugnatúros,
passiónis et resurrectiónis Fílii tui virtúte
ab originális culpæ labe nunc erípas
et eiúsdem Christi grátia munítos
in itínere vitæ suæ sine intermissióne custódias.
Per Christum Dóminum nostrum.
Omnes: Amen.]
ANOINTING BEFORE BAPTISM
87. The celebrant continues:
We anoint you with the oil of salvation
in the name of Christ our Savior;
may he strengthen you with his power,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Múniat te virtus Christi Salvatóris,
in cuius signum te óleo linímus salútis,
in eodem Christo Dómino nostro,
qui vivit et regnat in sáecula saeculórum.
Omnes: Amen.]
He anoints the child on the breast with the oil of catechumens.
88. If, for serious reasons, the conference of bishops so decides, the anointing before baptism may be omitted. In that case the celebrant says:
May you have strength in the power of Christ our Savior,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Múniat te virtus Christi Salvatóris,
qui vivit et regnat in sáecula saeculórum.
Omnes: Amen.]
And immediately he lays his hand on the child in silence.
89. Then they go to the baptistery, or to the sanctuary when baptism is celebrated there on occasion.
90. When they come to the font, the celebrant briefly reminds the congregation of the wonderful work of God whose plan it is to sanctify man, body and soul, through water. He may use these or similar words:
A My dear brothers and sisters, we now ask God to give this child new life in abundance through water and the Holy Spirit.
B My dear brothers and sisters, God uses the sacrament of water to give his divine life to those who believe in him. Let us turn to him, and ask him to pour his gift of life from this font on this child he has chosen.
BLESSING and INVOCATION of GOD OVER BAPTISMAL WATER
91. Then, turning to the font, he says the following blessing (outside the Easter season):
During the Easter season, if there is baptismal water which was consecrated at the Easter Vigil, the blessing and invocation of God over the water are nevertheless included, so that this theme of thanksgiving and petition may find a place in the baptism. The forms of this blessing and invocation are those found in Form B and C, with the variation indicated at the end of each text.
Form A English Latin
Form B English Latin
Form C English Latin
A (For version of the Roman Missal 2011, scroll down)
Father,
you give us grace through sacramental signs,
which tell us of the wonders of your unseen power.
In baptism we use your gift of water,
which you have made a rich symbol of the grace
you give us in this sacrament.
At the very dawn of creation
your Spirit breathed on the waters,
making them the wellspring of all holiness.
The waters of the great flood
you made a sign of the waters of baptism,
that make an end of sin and a new beginning of goodness.
Through the waters of the Red Sea
you led Israel out of slavery,
to be an image of God’s holy people,
set free from sin by baptism.
In the waters of the Jordan
your Son was baptized by John
and anointed with the Spirit.
Your Son willed that water and blood
should flow from his side as he hung upon the cross.
After his resurrection he told his disciples:
“Go out and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father,
and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Father,
look now with love upon your Church,
and unseal for her the fountain of baptism.
By the power of the Spirit
give to the water of this font the grace of your Son
so that in the sacrament of baptism
all those whom you have created in your likeness
may be cleansed from sin
and rise to a new birth of innocence by water and the Holy Spirit.
The celebrant touches the water with his right hand and continues:
We ask you, Father, with your Son
to send the Holy Spirit upon the water of this font.
May all who are buried with Christ in the death of baptism
rise also with him to newness of life.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
[NTRM:
O God, who by invisible power
accomplish a wondrous effect
through sacramental signs
and who in many ways have prepared water, your creation,
to show forth the grace of Baptism;
O God, whose Spirit
in the first moments of the world’s creation
hovered over the waters,
so that the very substance of water
would even then take to itself the power to sanctify;
O God, who by the outpouring of the flood
foreshadowed regeneration,
so that from the mystery of one and the same element of water
would come an end to vice and a beginning of virtue;
O God, who caused the children of Abraham
to pass dry-shod through the Red Sea,
so that the chosen people,
set free from slavery to Pharaoh,
would prefigure the people of the baptized;
O God, whose Son,
baptized by John in the waters of the Jordan,
was anointed with the Holy Spirit,
and, as he hung upon the Cross,
gave forth water from his side along with blood,
and after his Resurrection, commanded his disciples:
“Go forth, teach all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,”
look now, we pray, upon the face of your Church
and graciously unseal for her the fountain of Baptism.
May this water receive by the Holy Spirit
the grace of your Only Begotten Son,
so that human nature, created in your image
and washed clean through the Sacrament of Baptism
from all the squalor of the life of old,
may be found worthy to rise to the life of newborn children
through water and the Holy Spirit.
The celebrant touches the water with his right hand and continues:
May the power of the Holy Spirit,
O Lord, we pray,
come down through your Son
into the fullness of this font,
so that all who have been buried with Christ
by Baptism into death
may rise again to life with him.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
R. Amen.]
Go to the Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith
[Latin:
Deus, qui invisíbili poténtia
per sacramentórum signa mirábilem operáris efféctum,
et creatúram aquæ multis modis præparásti,
ut baptísmi grátiam demonstráret;
Deus, cuius Spíritus
super aquas inter ipsa mundi primórdia ferebátur,
ut iam tunc virtútem sanctificándi aquárum natúra concíperet;
Deus, qui regeneratiónis spéciem
in ipsa dilúvii effusióne signásti,
ut uníus eiusdémque eleménti mystério
et finis esset vítiis et orígo virtútum;
Deus, qui Abrahæ fílios
per mare Rubrum sicco vestígio transíre fecísti,
ut plebs, a Pharaónis servitúte liberáta,
pópulum baptizatórum præfiguráret;
Deus, cuius Fílius, in aqua Iordánis a Ioánne baptizátus,
Sancto Spíritu est inúnctus,
et in cruce pendens, una cum sánguine aquam de látere suo prodúxit,
ac, post resurrectiónem suam, discípulis iussit:
“Ite, docéte omnes gentes,
baptizántes eos in nómine Patris, et Fílii, et Spíritus Sancti:”
réspice in fáciem Ecclésiæ tuæ,
eíque dignáre fontem baptísmatis aperíre.
Sumat hæc acqua Unigéniti tui grátiam de Spíritu Sancto,
ut homo, ad imáginem tuam cónditus,
sacraménto Baptísmatis
a cunctis squalóribus vetustátis ablútus,
in novam infántiam ex aqua et Spíritu Sancto resúrgere meréatur.
Celebrans manu dextera tangit aquam et pergit:
Descéndat, quaésumus, Dómine, in hanc plenitúdinem fontis
per Fílium tuum virtus Spíritus Sancti,
ut omnes, cum Christo consepúlti per Baptísmum in mortem,
ad vitam cum ipso resúrgant.
Per Christum Dóminum nostrum.
Omnes: Amen.]
Go to the Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith
Form B
Facing the font (or vessel) containing the water, the celebrant says the following:
Praise to you, almighty God and Father,
for you have created water
to cleanse and to give life.
All sing or say a suitable acclamation such as the following:
All: Blessed be God.
Celebrant:
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, the Father’s only Son,
for you offered yourself on the cross,
that in the blood and water flowing from your side,
and through your death and resurrection,
the Church might be born.
All: Blessed be God.
Celebrant:
Praise to you, God the Holy Spirit,
for you anointed Christ at his baptism in the waters of Jordan,
so that we might all be baptized in you.
All: Blessed be God.
Go to part B: when the water is already blessed
A Go to Latin
Celebrant:
Come to us, Lord, Father of all,
and make holy this water which you have created,
so that all who are baptized in it
may be washed clean of sin
and be born again to live as your children.
All sing or say the following, or some other suitable invocation:
All: Hear us, Lord.
Celebrant:
Make this water holy, Lord,
so that all who are baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection by this water
may become more perfectly like your Son.
All: Hear us, Lord.
The celebrant touches the water with his right hand and continues:
Lord,
make holy this water which you have created,
so that all those whom you have chosen
may be born again by the power of the Holy Spirit,
and may take their place among your holy people.
All: Hear us, Lord.
[Latin:
Celebrans:
Adésto nobis, Dómine, Pater unus,
et sanctífica creatúram aquæ,
ut, in ea baptizáti,
hómines a peccáto abluántur
et ad vitam tuórum renascántur adoptiónis filiórum.
Omnes: Exáudi nos, Dómine. (vel alia apta invocano).
Celebrans:
Sanctífica creaturam aquæ,
ut, qui per eam in mortem et resurrectionem Christi baptizántur,
confórmes in ipso fiant imágini Fílii tui.
Omnes: Exáudi nos, Dómine.
Celebrans manu dextera tangit aquam et pergit:
Sanctífica hanc creatúram aquæ,
ut Spíritu Sancto regeneréntur quos elegísti,
et partem hábeant pópuli sancti tui.
Omnes: Exáudi nos, Dómine.]
B
During the Easter season, if there is baptismal water already blessed, the celebrant concludes with the following:
You called your childN.,
to this cleansing water,
that he (she) may share in the faith of your Church and eternal life.
By the mystery of this consecrated water
lead him (her) to a new and spiritual birth.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
Go to the Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith
C
Facing the font (or vessel) containing the water, the celebrant says the following:
Father,
God of mercy,
through these waters of baptism
you have filled us with new life as your very own children.
All sing or say a suitable acclamation such as the following:
All: Blessed be God.
Celebrant: From all who are baptized in water and the Holy Spirit,
you have formed one people,
united in your Son, Jesus Christ.
All: Blessed be God.
Celebrant: You have set us free
and filled our hearts with the Spirit of your love,
that we may live in your peace.
All: Blessed be God.
Celebrant: You call those who have been baptized
to announce the Good News of Jesus Christ to people everywhere.
All: Blessed be God.
Go to part B: when the water is already blessed
A Go to Latin
You have called your child, N.,
to this cleansing water and new birth,
that by sharing the faith of your Church
he (she) may have eternal life.
Bless + this water in which he (she) will be baptized.
We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Hanc aquam benedicere + nunc dignare,
qua baptizandi sunt famuluum tuum N. (famulam tuam N.),
qui ad lavacrum regenerationis vocasti,
ut habeant vitam aeternam.
Per Christum Dominum nostrum.
Omnes: Amen.]
B
You have called your child, N., to this cleansing water,
that he (she) may share in the faith of your Church
and have eternal life.
By the mystery of this consecrated water
lead him (her) to a new and spiritual birth.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
RENUNCIATION of SIN and PROFESSION of FAITH
93. The celebrant speaks to the parents and godparents in these words:
Dear parents and godparents: You have come here to present this child for baptism. By water and the Holy Spirit he (she) is to receive the gift of new life from God, who is love.
On your part, you must make it your constant care to bring him (her) up in the practice of the faith. See that the divine life which God gives him (her) is kept safe from the poison of sin, to grow always stronger in his (her) heart.
If your faith makes you ready to accept this responsibility, renew now the vows of your own baptism. Reject sin; profess your faith in Christ Jesus. This is the faith of the Church. This is the faith in which this child is about to be baptized.
94. The celebrant questions the parents and godparents:
A
Celebrant: Do you reject Satan?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: And all his works?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: And all his empty promises?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
B
Celebrant: Do you reject sin, so as to live in the freedom of God’s children?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: Do you reject the glamor of evil, and refuse to be mastered by sin?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: Do you reject Satan, father of sin and prince of darkness?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
According to circumstances, this second form may be expressed with greater precision by the conferences of bishops, especially in places where it is necessary for the parents and godparents to reject superstitious and magical practices used with children.
95. Next the celebrant asks for the threefold profession of faith from the parents and godparents:
Celebrant: Do you believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: Do you believe in Jesus Christ,
his only Son, our Lord,
who was born of the Virgin Mary,
was crucified, died, and was buried,
rose from the dead,
and is now seated at the right hand of the Father?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
Celebrant: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting?
Parents and Godparents: I do.
The celebrant and the congregation give their assent to this profession of faith:
Celebrant: This is our faith.
This is the faith of the Church.
We are proud to profess it, in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All: Amen.
If desired, some other formula may be used instead, or a suitable song by which the community expresses its faith with a single voice.
BAPTISM
97. The celebrant invites the family to the font and questions the parents and godparents:
Celebrant:
Is it your will that N. should be baptized in the faith of the Church, which we have all professed with you?
Parents and Godparents: It is.
Go to Latin text of Baptism
He baptizes the child, saying:
N., I baptize you in the name of the Father,
He immerses the child or pours water upon it.
and of the Son,
He immerses the child or pours water upon it a second time.
and of the Holy Spirit.
He immerses the child or pours water upon it a third time.
[Latin:
N. ego te baptízo in nómine Patris,
immergit infantem vel infundit aquam primo
et Fílii,
immergit illum vel infundit aquam secundo
et Spíritus Sancti.
immergit illum vel infundit aquam tertio.]
After the child is baptized, it is appropriate for the people to sing a short acclamation. (See nos. 225-245 .)
Go to the Acclamations and Hymns
If the baptism is performed by the pouring of water, it is preferable that the child be held by the mother (or father). Where, however, it is felt that the existing custom should be retained, the godmother (or godfather) may hold the child. If baptism is by immersion, the mother or father (godmother of godfather) lifts the child out of the font.
ANOINTING after BAPTISM
98. Then the celebrant says:
The God of power and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
has freed you from sin,
given you a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit,
and welcomed you into his holy people.
He now anoints you with the chrism of salvation.
As Christ was anointed Priest, Prophet, and King,
so may you live always as a member of his body,
sharing everlasting life.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Deus omnípotens, Pater Dómini nostri Iesu Christi,
qui te a peccáto liberávit
et regenerávit ex aqua et Spíritu Sancto,
ipse te linit chrísmate salutis,
ut, eius aggregátus pópulo, Christi sacerdótis, prophétae et regis
membrum permáneas in vitam ætérnam.
Omnes: Amen.]
Then the celebrant anoints the child on the crown of the head with the sacred chrism, in silence.
CLOTHING with the WHITE GARMENT
99. The celebrant says:
N., you have become a new creation,
and have clothed yourself in Christ.
See in this white garment the outward sign of your Christian dignity.
With your family and friends to help you by word and example,
bring that dignity unstained
into the everlasting life of heaven.
All: Amen.
The white garment is put on the child. A different color is not permitted unless demanded by local custom. It is desirable that the family provide the garment.
LIGHTED CANDLE
100. The celebrant takes the Easter candle and says:
Receive the light of Christ.
[Latin: Lumen Christi accipiter.]
Someone from the family (such as the father or godfather) lights the child’s candle from the Easter candle.
The celebrant then says:
Parents and godparents,
this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly.
This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ.
He (she) is to walk always as a child of the light.
May he (she) keep the flame of faith alive in his (her) heart.
When the Lord comes, may he (she) go out to meet him
with all the saints in the heavenly kingdom.
EPHPHETHA or PRAYER over EARS and MOUTH
101. If the conference of bishops decides to preserve the practice, the rite of Ephphetha follows. The celebrant touches the ears and mouth of the child with his thumb, saying:
The Lord Jesus made the deaf hear and the dumb speak.
May he soon touch your ears to receive his word,
and your mouth to proclaim his faith,
to the praise and glory of God the Father.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Dóminus Iesus,
qui surdos fecit audíre et mutos loqui,
det tibi ut mox possis áuribus accípere verbum eius
et profitéri fidem in laudem et glóriam Dei Patris.
Omnes: Amen.]
102. Next there is a procession to the altar, unless the baptism was performed in the sanctuary. The lighted candle is carried for the child. A baptismal song is appropriate at this time, e.g.:
You have put on Christ,
in him you have been baptized.
Alleluia, alleluia.
Other songs may be chosen from nos. 225-245.
Go to the Acclamations and Hymns
LORD’S PRAYER
103. The celebrant stands in front of the altar and addresses the parents, godparents, and the whole assembly in these or similar words:
Dearly beloved, this child has been reborn in baptism.
He (she) is now called the child of God, for so indeed he (she) is.
In confirmation he (she) will receive the fullness of God’s Spirit.
In holy communion he (she) will share the banquet of Christ’s sacrifice,
calling God his (her) Father in the midst of the Church.
In the name of this child, in the Spirit of our common sonship,
let us pray together in the words our Lord has given us:
104. All present join the celebrant in singing or saying:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
BLESSING
Form B Form C Form D
105. The celebrant first blesses the mother, who holds the child in her arms, then the father, and lastly the entire assembly:
A
Celebrant:
God the Father, through his Son, the Virgin Mary’s child,
has brought joy to all Christian mothers,
as they see the hope of eternal life shine on their children.
May he bless the mother of this child.
She now thanks God for the gift of her child.
May she be one with him (her)
in thanking him for ever in heaven,
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
God is the giver of all life, human and divine.
May he bless the father of this child.
He and his wife will be the first teachers of their child in the ways of faith.
May they be also the best of teachers,
bearing witness to the faith by what they say and do,
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
By God’s gift, through water and the Holy Spirit,
we are reborn to everlasting life.
In his goodness,
may he continue to pour out his blessings upon these sons and daughters of his.
May he make them always, wherever they may be,
faithful members of his holy people.
May he send his peace upon all who are gathered here,
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May almighty God,
the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit,
bless you.
All: Amen.
B 247 Celebrant:
May God the almighty Father, who filled the world with joy by giving us his only Son, bless this newly-baptized child. May he (she) grow to be more fully like Jesus Christ our Lord.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May almighty God, who gives life on earth and in heaven, bless the parents of this child. They thank him now for the gift he has given them. May they always show that gratitude in action by loving and caring for their child (children).
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May almighty God, who has given us a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit, generously bless all of us who are his faithful children. May we always live as his people, and may he bless all here present with his peace.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May almighty God, the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit, bless you.
All: Amen.
C 248 Celebrant:
May God, the source of life and love, who fills the hearts of mothers with love for their children, bless the mother of this newly-baptized child. As she thanks God for a safe delivery, may she find joy in the love, growth, and holiness of her child (children).
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May God, the Father and model of all fathers, help this father to give good example, so that his child (children) will grow to be mature Christians in all the fullness of Jesus Christ.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
May God, who loves all people, bless all the relatives and friends who are gathered here. In his mercy, may he guard them from evil and give them his abundant peace.
All: Amen.
Celebrant:
And may almighty God, the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit, bless you.
All: Amen.
D 249
Celebrant: My brothers and sisters, we entrust you all to the mercy and help of God the almighty Father, his only Son, and the Holy Spirit. May he watch over your life, and may we all walk by the light of faith, and attain the good things he has promised us.
Go in peace, and may almighty God, the Father, and the Son, + and the Holy Spirit, bless you.
All: Amen.
[Latin:
Dóminus Deus omnípotens,
qui per Fílium suum natum ex María Vírgine
christiánas laetíficat matres aetérnae spe vitae,
quae suis affúlget infántibus, dignétur matrem huius benedícere infántis,
ut, quae de sóbole grátias nunc agit accépta,
perpétuo cum ipsa gratiárum máneat actióne,
in Christo Iesu Dómino nostro.
Omnes: Amen.
Dóminus Deus omnípotens,
qui vitam terrénam largítur et caeléstem,
patrem huius infántis benedícat,
ut, una cum cóniuge sua,
verbo et exémplo proli priórem se fídei testem exhíbeat,
in Christo Iesu Dómino nostro.
Omnes: Amen.
Dóminus Deus omnípotens,
qui nos ex aqua et Spíritu Sancto in vitam regenerávit aetérnam,
hos fidéles suos muníficus benedícat,
ut semper et ubíque vívida sint membra pópuli sui,
et pacem suam ómnibus hic praeséntibus largiátur,
in Christo Iesu Dómino nostro.
Omnes: Amen.
Benedícat vos omnípotens Deus,
Pater, + et Fílius, et Spíritus Sanctus.
Omnes: Amen.]
After the blessing, all may sing a hymn which suitably expresses thanksgiving and Easter joy, or they may sing the song of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Magnificat. Where there is the practice of bringing the baptized child to the altar of the Blessed Virgin Mary, this custom is observed if appropriate.
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit:
as it was in the beginning, is now
and will be forever. Amen.
[Latin:
Magnificat ánima mea Dóminum.
Et exsultávit spíritus meus:
in Deo, salutári meo.
Quia respéxit humilitátem ancíllæ suæ:
ecce enim ex hoc beátam me dicent omnes generatiónes.
Quia fecit mihi magna, qui potens est:
et sanctum nomen eius.
Et misericórdia eius, a progénie in progénies:
timéntibus eum.
Fecit poténtiam in bráchio suo:
dispérsit supérbos mente cordis sui.
Depósuit poténtes de sede:
et exaltávit húmiles.
Esuriéntes implévit bonis:
et dívites dimísit inánes.
Suscépit Israël púerum suum:
recordátus misericórdiæ suæ.
Sicut locútus est ad patres nostros:
Abraham, et sémini eius in sæcula.
Glória Patri, et Fílio, et Spirítui Sancto.
Sicut erat in princípio, et nunc, et semper,
et in sæcula sæculórum. Amen.]
ACCLAMATIONS AND HYMNS
Acclamations from Sacred Scripture
225 Exodus 15:11
Lord God, who is your equal?
Strong, majestic, and holy!
Worthy of praise, worker of wonders!
226 1 John 1:5
God is light: in him there is no darkness.
227 1 John 4:16
God is love: he who lives in love,
lives in God.
228 Ephesians 4:6
There is one God, one Father of all:
he is over all, and through all:
he lives in all of us.
229 Psalm 34:6
Come to him and receive his light!
230 see Ephesians 1:4
Blessed be God
who chose you in Christ.
231 Ephesians 2:10
You are God’s work of art,
created in Christ Jesus.
232 1 John 3:2
You are now God’s children,
my dearest friends.
What you shall be in his glory
has not yet been revealed.
233 1 John 3:1
Think of how God loves you!
He calls you his own children,
and that is what you are.
234 Revelation 22:14
Happy are those who have
washed their robes clean:
washed in the blood of the Lamb!
235 Galatians 3:28
All of you are one:
united in Christ Jesus.
236 Ephesians 5:1-2
Imitate God, walk in his love,
just as Christ loves us.
Hymns in the Style of the New Testament
237 1 Peter 1:3-5
Praised be the Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ:
a God so merciful and kind!
He has given us a new birth, a living hope,
by raising Jesus his Son from death.
Salvation is our undying inheritance,
preserved for us in heaven,
salvation at the end of time.
238
How great the sign of God’s love for us,
Jesus Christ our Lord:
promised before all time began,
revealed in these last days.
He lived and suffered and died for us,
but the Spirit raised him to life.
People everywhere have heard his message
and placed their faith in him.
What wonderful blessings he gives his people:
living in the Father’s glory,
he fills all creation
and guides it to perfection.
Songs from Ancient Liturgies
239
We believe in you, Lord Jesus Christ.
Fill our hearts with your radiance,
and make us the children of light!
240
We come to you, Lord Jesus.
Fill us with your life,
make us children of the Father,
and one in you.
241
Lord Jesus, from your wounded side
flowed streams of cleansing water:
the world was washed of all its sin,
all life made new again!
242
The Father’s voice calls us above the waters,
the glory of the Son shines on us,
the love of the Spirit fills us with life.
243
Holy Church of God, stretch out your hand
and welcome your children
newborn of water
and of the Spirit of God.
244
Rejoice, you newly baptized,
chosen members of the kingdom.
Buried with Christ in death,
you are reborn in him by faith.
245
This is the fountain of life,
water made holy by the suffering of Christ,
washing all the world.
You who are washed in this water
have hope of heaven’s kingdom.
Return to the Intercessions
Return to the Anointing After Baptism
Return to the Lord’s Prayer
