Rev. Fr. David Okolie
Dearest friends, on this Feast Day of the BAPTISM OF THE LORD, I wish to reflect with you on Baptism in the Catholic Church, especially as regards INFANT Baptism.
Do you still remember this admonition of St. Peter: โBe always ready to give an explanation to all who ask you the reason for that hope which is in you”? (cf. 1 Pt 3:15). Sometimes, we see Catholics who find it difficult to respond to questions about Baptism from Non-Catholics.
Thus, it is important to reemphasize the truth that BAPTISM cleanses both ORIGINAL sin and PERSONAL sins (in the case of ADULT Baptism). This also tells us that the Catholic Church also baptizes ADULTS; perhaps those who hadn’t the opportunity to receive infant baptism.
๐๐ผ Now, this forgiveness of SINS at Baptism is possible through the merits of Jesus’ death and resurrection. However, after Baptism, the person baptized is expected to live up to the demands of Baptism (i.e, rejection of sin and then living a life of virtues) all through his/her life. It is only through the above would the Baptized person merit heaven (cf. CCC, nn. 1263-1264). It follows then that sins committed after Baptism are cleansed through the Sacrament of CONFESSIONย (cf. CCC, nn. 1420, 1425, Jn 20:21-23).
But, one of the most controversial aspects of Baptism in the Catholic Church is the INFANT BAPTISM. Have you ever been asked why Catholics baptize infants or have you ever asked yourself such question? Well, the answer is very simple and clear. Since infants sometimes die, it becomes very wise to Baptize them based on the teaching of Jesus Christ himself thus: โI tell you the TRUTH, no PERSON can ENTER the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit”ย (cf. Jn 3:5). The question is this: Is an infant a PERSON? If yes, then Baptism should be received in order to meet the above requirement by Jesus Christ, who is God.
Following the above, the Church teaches:
โThe Church and the parents would deny a CHILD the priceless grace of becoming a child of God were they not to confer Baptism SHORTLY AFTER BIRTH” (cf. CCC, n. 1250).
The Church is always ready. Please, parents, do not hesitate in bringing forth your infants for Baptism๐๐ผ
๐๐ผPlease, dearest friends, stay tuned for more posts on INFANT BAPTISM and also feel free to ask your questions๐๐ผ
Remain blessed๐๐ผ
