Baptism
Baptism is the first of the seven sacraments, cleansing a person of original sin and formally welcoming them into the Catholic Church through water and the words "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
What Happens
Water is poured over (or the person is immersed in) while the baptismal words are spoken; godparents present the candidate and promise to help raise them in the faith.
Infant and Adult Baptism
Most Catholics are baptized as infants on their parents' faith, though adults who join the Church later are baptized as part of full initiation, often at the Easter Vigil.
Related Terms
Related Saints
Related Prayers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Baptism be repeated?
No. Baptism leaves a permanent spiritual mark and is received only once, even if a person later leaves and returns to the faith.
Is Baptism only for Catholics?
No — the Catholic Church recognizes baptisms performed by most other Christian denominations using water and the Trinitarian formula as valid.