The Catholic Parish of Holy Family
Baptism
Baptism
One of the seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church.
The moment when we are 'born again.' In Baptism we begin to share in the new, risen life of Jesus.
We are united with Jesus and become members of his body, the Church.
More on Baptism
More on Baptism
"Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God"
(Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213).
Baptism and Salvation
Baptism and Salvation
The Lord teaches us through Scripture that Baptism is necessary for our salvation. "Amen, Amen, I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."
Jn. 3:5
St. Gregory Nazianzus
St. Gregory Nazianzus
"Baptism is the means by which we become children of God and heirs to His kingdom. Baptism is God's most magnificent gift We call it gift, grace, anointing, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty, baptism because sin is buried in water, anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God's Lordship."