January St. Dominic’s RCIA Program Disciple

Sacramental Worldview & 8 and 5

Goal • Today we will review more of the mission, meaning, and terminology of the as the Body of , and then start exploring a key understanding of how Christ continues his work through the Church, the . The broad meaning of is a physical reality that reveals to us, and helps us to truly encounter, a spiritual reality. The has seven core Sacraments, but we also understand the world through this sacramental awareness of reality.

Agenda • Welcome/Housekeeping (5) • Questions and Answers • Opening Prayer: Vatican II Prayer (5) • Followup slides and questions on Disciple 3—(15) • Discussion (15) • What is the best gift you ever got? What made it so great? Does it remind you of the giver? • What is the best gift you ever gave? What made it so great? • Have your group agree on a definition of “gift?” How do gifts work? • Presentation: Sacraments – Part 1 (15) • Break (10) • Presentation: Baptism & Confirmation – Part 2 (35) • For Reflection (5) • Pick a Gift of the . How can you cultivate it in your life this week and in the New Year?

Housekeeping • Next week: • We’ll go back to Disciple 4 and explore Church History. • of Acceptance & RCIA Dismissal • Sunday, February 10th, at the 11:30am and 5:30pm Masses. • Dismissals are for folks who have not been baptized or baptized in another denomination • Track down your Baptismal Certificate (only people for reception and confirmation): • Please request a copy of your baptismal certificate from the place you were baptized • If they don’t keep records, get a letter from a family member. • Catholics: If records were lost, talk to us. • Candidates: Tell Michael who your chosen sponsor is. If you know who you want to ask, ask them ASAP. If you need help in finding one, email Michael ASAP. Handouts

• Session Overview (this sheet) • Slides: Sacraments • Gifts of the Holy Spirit—Worksheet • Rite of Baptism for Children • Optional Journey (At Resource Table): Jewish Roots of the

Note: Blessing over the Baptismal water • 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 foundation of baptism. By the power of the Holy Spirit give to the water 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. We ask you, Father, with your Son to send the Holy Spirit upon the waters 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. Amen. Preparing for next week (Topic: CHURCH—History and Teaching): • Reflection Questions • If the Church is The Body of Christ, what does this mean for Christ’s presence in the world through history and in the world today? • What do I admire about the Catholic Church’s activity in history? Does any part of the Church’s activity in history disturb or upset me? • How do I (might I) listen to what the Church has to say today? What is my approach/attitude to the Church as “Teacher”? Questions and Answers: January 06, 2019 Total questions: 75 Questions answered: 41 No new questions from last week Questions Answered on January 08, 2019 (Disciple 4) Answers Does the historical record support the proposition that the Catholic church is the one true Christian church? Is the Catholic church the oldest Christian church? (Importance: Important, Topics: Church and History)

The Catholic faith proposes that the universal Roman Catholic Church, which includes many and churches in communion with the of Rome (the pope), expresses the fullness of the faith taught by Christ. In words, the Roman Catholic Church believes that this fullness subsists in itself, by virtue of visible expression of the that we hear in the Nice : one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.

Using the language "" can be misleading, because it implies that can be interpreted as meaning that other Christian churches that are not in with the Roman Catholic Church do not express any of the truth of Christ. That is not what we believe as Catholics. There is much of Christ's truth and saving work in other churches. But the fullness and unbroken connection to the Church that Christ founded resides in the Catholic Church.

It can be said that the Orthodox Church, to name just one of the ancient churches not in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, is just as old as the Roman Catholic Church. In fact, they were united as one church until the East-West schism in 1054 A.D. Therefore, there is a common apostolic lineage shared with . So what sets the Roman Catholic Church apart? The fullness of truth claim that Roman Catholics make is not simply based on being the oldest. Rather, it is based on unity and fidelity with Christ through the apostolic tradition which he founded. Roman Catholics are visibly united most authentically to this tradition (which includes what we believe, how we worship, and how we live) because we can point to the primacy of Peter, the first bishop of Rome, who was given the role and responsibiilty by to be the "rock" upon which Christ would build his Church. Therefore, Peter, and all his successors (the line of popes all the way down to Pope Francis today) are the visible sign of unity for Christ's Church, holding together the tradition of al the apostles and all the Christian communities and faithful that profess, worship, and follow Christ in this world.

More generally, we believe that other Christian faiths contain some, even most, aspects of the Church. It is also true that many non Christian faiths can have authentic aspects of Christ's teaching even if they did not come to those beliefs through Christ.

The Vatican has groups with the responsibility to foster dialog with the worlds major religions. Other regional my open up avenues of dialog with groups that are strong within those diocese. The goal of this dialog is to foster understanding, to find common ground, and to work together for a more just world.

What are the biggest challenges the Church faces today (not related to recent "bombshell")? What can regular Catholics do to help (except for prayer)? (Importance: Curious, Topics: Church)

The Church has faced challenges from the very beginning. Just think of persecution under the Roman empire as well as under modern secular states, the Arian and Donatist heresies, the Avignon papacy, the various wars of religion between Christian countries as well as with aggressive expansions of Islam, periods of egregious corruption and lack of education among the . The Church's presence throughout most of the world today is really quite a miracle.

Today, there are many challenges the Church faces, and there are different perspectives among Catholics not to mention non-Catholic observers regarding which are the biggest. I think the most pressing challenges differ depending on which Church community and region you are in the world. The scandals of abuse among clergy and in the Church in the U.S., in Chile, and in Ireland, to name just a few of the most highly publicized cases, are certainly something that effects the universal Church and its credibility, but the Church in other countries might recognize threats to religious liberty, civil unrest and poverty, collusion with unjust regimes, or a lack of vocations as equally pre-eminent.

All Catholics are certainly called to pray for God's will to be done both locally and globally, for the Church to be faithful to the mission given us by Christ, and for ongoing spiritual renewal. This vocation to pray is not to be take lightly, since all our other endeavors will likely falter without it. But we also must discern what attitudes, words, and actions God calls us to do in our particular context as individuals and communities of faith in order to carry forward Christ's mission. This discerning path requires a way of prayer that listens to God's word and the stirrings of Holy Spirit, that follows the guidance of our critical reason and the wisdom of the Church, and that relies on the gifts and virtues of the Holy Spirit so that we might have courage and consistency in doing what's right and just.

Personally, I believe that the basics of living an authentic Christian life are always the most important thing that any Catholic can do, irrespective of their charisms, education, or role in the institutional Church. These basics include prayer, receiving the Sacraments, sharing the Good News of the , doing the works of mercy, and contributing to the common good in your particular society as active citizens. Catholics live out their vocation for the Church and or the world by recognizing their own dignity in baptism and by supporting but also holding accountable their ecclesial and civil leaders. Just as we need to educate ourselves on the facts of our society and advocate and volunteer and give and vote for good laws and just leaders, we need to utilize the avenues of communication in the Church, beginning with our diocese, educate ourselves on what is going on, and make our voices heard, with love, for Christ's mission to be realized in the workings of the Church. Read the diocesan parish bulletin and diocesan newspaper. Speak to your parish's , staff, and parish council leaders when you have an idea, a concern, or a gift (time, talent, treasure) you can contribute. These are just a few basic ways to help.

How does the "No Na Ching" (sic), ancient Eastern text, measure in (sic) its authenticity? In video, it was texts, only European texts.

Editor's note: Perhaps the inquirer is referring to the "Tao Te Ching" ( (Importance: Curious, Topics: History and Other Faiths)

I cannot find any reference to a text called the No Na Ching on the internet, so I'm going to assume that our editor is correct and the inquirer is asking about the Taoist foundational text, the Tao Te Ching.

Wikipedia's article on the Tao Te Ching reports that the principal existing manuscripts of this text that have been preserved from the 3rd Century C.E., including the "Heshang Gong" version and the Wang Bi version. The Mawangdui and Guodian manuscripts and fragments date to the 2nd and 3rd Centuries B.C.E.

For our purposes in RCIA,the Tao Te Ching's authenticity as an historical philosophical text is not at odds with Christian faith. Although scholars do debate the specific dating and attribution of the earliest manuscripts and some translations, its specific historical authorship is not controversy. can accept and grow from the wisdom and inspiration shared in this classic text. The Christian Scriptures are different because they contain not only wise teaching and precepts for thinking and living, but also truth claims about the mystery of God and the salvific mission of the unique incarnation of God in Jesus Christ, a real person in human history. We can find common ground in the wisdom taught by Jesus and the author of the Tao Te Ching, but Jesus also presents a singular teaching of unconditional, divine love which is inseparable from his own divine power and identity. The "stakes" of accepting the Tao Te Ching as authentic or inauthentic are not as high.

Here is some more background on this this text from Wikipedia:

The Tao Te Ching ([tâu tɤ̌ tɕíŋ] ( listen)), also known by its pinyin romanization Daode Jing,[a] is a Chinese classic text traditionally credited to the 6th-century BC sage Laozi. The text's authorship, date of composition and date of compilation are debated.[5] The oldest excavated portion dates back to the late 4th century BC,[6] but modern scholarship dates other parts of the text as having been written—or at least compiled—later than the earliest portions of the Zhuangzi.[7] The Tao Te Ching, along with the Zhuangzi, is a fundamental text for both philosophical and religious Taoism. It also strongly influenced other schools of Chinese philosophy and religion, including Legalism, Confucianism, and Buddhism, which was largely interpreted through the use of Taoist words and concepts when it was originally introduced to China. Many Chinese artists, including poets, painters, calligraphers, and gardeners, have used the Tao Te Ching as a source of inspiration. Its influence has spread widely outside East Asia and it is among the most translated works in world literature.[6] Opening Prayer

We stand before you, Holy Spirit, conscious of our sinfulness, but aware that we gather in your name.

Come to us, remain with us, and enlighten our hearts.

Give us light and strength to know your will, to make it our own, and to live it in our lives.

Guide us by your wisdom, support us by your power, for you are God, sharing the glory of Father and Son.

You desire justice for all; enable us to uphold the rights of others; do not allow us to be misled by ignorance or corrupted by fear or favor.

Unite us to yourself in the bond of love and keep us faithful to all that is true.

As we gather in your name, may we temper justice with love, so that all our discussions and reflections may be pleasing to you, and earn the reward promised to good and faithful servants.

We ask this of You who live and reign with the Father and the Son, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

From page 191 of the Book of Blessings. This prayer was used before every session of the Second Vatican Council. Sacraments: Doors to the Sacred

St. Dominic’s R.C.I.A.

Discussion

• What is the greatest gift you’ve received? – What made it so great? – Does any aspect of it remind you of the person who gave it to you?

• What is the greatest gift you’ve given? – What made it so great?

• Can your group agree on a definition of “gift.” How do gifts “work”?

We’ll Explore

• Sacraments are essential to understanding Catholicism – Sacramental Worldview • Exploring Questions – What is necessary for human communication? – How does God communicate himself to us? – What does Sacrament mean? – Why do we need sacraments? – What or who makes sacraments “work”? – How are God, Christ, Church & the Seven Sacraments connected?

Human Communication

• At its most basic and primitive level, how do we learn anything? – Through our senses (Catholicism respects our physical senses) • How do we know ourselves? – Through others (Catholicism recognizes our social nature) • What do I need to become ‘whole’? – Relationships (The heart of Catholicism is a relationship…) Divine Communication

• God utilizes the mode of the receiver (us)

• Everything is mediated through our senses – Signs – Symbols – Language – Common experience – Etc.

Sacrament Meaning

• From Greek, Mysterion (mystery) – Something revealed – Remains a mystery due to richness and depth of meaning – St. Paul: The Father’s plan of salvation from the beginning to save all in Christ. Jesus is the mysterion. • Into , Sacramentum (sacrament) – Pledge of property guaranteeing a contract – Loyalty oath of a soldier - consecrated to the gods • Christian Context – General sense: any sacred sign, symbol, or ceremony – Reserved sense: seven actions we now call Sacraments

Signs & Symbols Theologically Speaking

• Symbols are signs, but not all signs are symbols. • Signs point to something else. They communicate. • Contemporary math confuses signs and symbols.

Not “just” a Symbol

• Role of Symbol – Symbols are signs, but they are more in the sense they somehow convey what is symbolized – Carriers of deep and profound meaning – They point to something else, yet also participate in the power and meaning of that object. – There is a “dialetic” tension between symbols and objects. Doorways To The Sacred

• Sacraments are sacred symbols. They are windows or doors unto the sacred. – God in search of humanity – God speaks to us in human terms so that we can understand – God therefore makes use of “symbols” – They point to, yet also participate in, a divine object/dynamic. • Sacraments are Incarnations • Sacraments are visible signs of an invisible reality.

Symbolic Chain

GOD is symbolized by JESUS is symbolized by CHURCH

is symbolized by SACRAMENTS

Sacraments: 7 Privileged Moments

• Another Definition of 7 Sacraments: Signs instituted by Christ that give grace.

• Sacraments of Initiation (Gathering) – Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist

• Sacraments of Healing – Reconciliation, of the Sick – In some ways…Eucharist

• Sacraments of Mission/Vocation – , Marriage – In some ways…Baptism & Confirmation – Sustained through…Eucharist

3 Necessary Aspects

Scripture Sacraments Ethics

Learn Celebrate Live

(if we embrace one and ignore the others) () (Ritualism) (Moralism) Four Aspects of All Sacraments

• Recalls Past Events

• Celebrates God’s Present Action • Looks to God’s Future Promises

• I respond by making a commitment.

Sacramental Worldview

• Anything that connects us to God is a sacrament • Sacramentals: – Catholic “tools” – Holy water, rosary, palms, ashes, etc. • Jesus is the Primary Sacrament • 7 Privileged Sacraments continue Jesus’ work • We are called to become sacraments

Validity & Fruitfulness

What does a Sacrament require? • Form (what is said by the Sacramental minister) • Matter (the physical symbols, actions) • Required disposition and intention of the recipient, in order that the Sacrament may be fruitful, CC 1131. (honesty, humility, freedom, faith, love, responsiveness)

Baptism in the Old and

Old Covenant New Covenant • Noah • John the Baptist baptizes Jesus • Freedom from Slavery in Egypt (Red Sea) • St. Peter Baptizes in Christ’s name • River Jordan • St. Paul talks about baptism • washing as a bath that purifies, justifies, sanctifies, and initiates Baptism

• Cleansing – Exorcism – Water • Claiming – In the Name of… – New Life in Christ • Chrismating – Anointing • Clothing – White Garment – Light (of Christ) – Signing

Baptism: Cleansing

• Prayer of Exorcism – Almighty God, you sent your only Son to rescue us from the slavery of sin, and to give us the freedom only your sons and daughters enjoy. We now pray for these children who will have to face the world with its temptations, and fight the devil in all his cunning. You Son died and rose again to save us. By his victory over sin and death, cleanse these children from the stain of . Strengthen them with the grace of Christ, and watch over them at every step in life’s journey. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. • Water – …By the power of the Spirit give to the water of this font the grace of your Son. You created man in you own likeness: cleanse him from sin...

Baptism: Claiming

• Water – …new birth of innocence by water and the Spirit.

• Name—God calls you by name as his child.

• Baptism – I baptize you, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit

• Incorporated into the Body of Christ, into “Eternity” Life.

Baptism: Chrismating

• Anointing with Oil – Kings were anointed in the – Messiah means “Anointed One” – In baptism, we share in Jesus’ royal priesthood – —Sanctifying—making things holy by prayer and sacrifice – Prophet—Teaching—speaking the truth – King—Governing—caring for creation, acting with justice and love. Baptism: Clothing

• White Garment – (N. and N.), you have become a new creation, and have clothed yourselves 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. Amen. • Candle – Receive the light of Christ. Parents and godparents, this light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. These children of yours have been enlightened by Christ. They are to walk always as children of the light. May they keep the flame of faith alive in their hearts. When the Lord comes, may they go out to meet him with all the in the heavenly kingdom. • Sign of the Cross

Confirmation

• Normally done by a bishop, except at Vigil in some parishes (such as St. Dominic’s) • Completes (confirms) our Baptism • Strengthens us to live more like Christ • Celebrates our conscious relationship with the Holy Spirit and the 7 Gifts • Fully initiates (and orients us) into the Catholic Church community

Confirmation

• • Signifies the strengthening of the 7 Gifts of the Spirit in us. • The maturing of our Christian faith

Confirmation

• Anointing w/ Oil

– (Name), be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit. – R: Amen. – Peace be with you. – R: And with your spirit. The 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit • listed in Isaiah11:2-3 • They belong in their fullness to Christ, Son of David [hence, they make us more like Christ]. (CCC 1831) • They complete and perfect the virtues of those who receive them [they build on natural virtues and on our faith]. • They make the faithful docile in readily obeying divine inspirations [so that we can help build God’s kingdom] • Wisdom: the desire to know the things of God, to value what God values • Understanding: penetrating insight into the very heart of things… • Knowledge: The ability to know the truth, fact from fiction, to guide our life. • Courage: overcoming fear, willing to take risks as a follower of Jesus Christ. • Right Judgment/Counsel: knowing between right & wrong, & choosing right • Reverence: a deep sense of respect and love for God and the Church • Wonder and Awe/Fear of the Lord: awareness of God’s majesty and glory

Roles of Jesus Christ • Priest • Prophet – Healing & forgiving – Teaching – Confronting established authority – Showing compassion & mercy – Revealing God – Sacrificing (offering) himself – Summoning people to – Praying responsibility for history – Speaking on humanity’s behalf to – Adoring the Father the Father – Blessing • King – Gathering disciples – Sending on mission – Breaking down barriers – Inaugurating God’s kingdom

Roles of Holy Spirit/Church

• Sanctify, i.e. make holy. (priest) – (Original Jewish meaning) To set apart for God – (Jesus redefines holiness) To be God’s compassion – To praise to God & “sanctify” people • Teach (prophet) – Reflect on, clarify, articulate, explore & share the living faith. • Caveat: “The Deposit of Faith” is not static & fixed. • Govern (king) – Gather/unify the community – Focus the community on the mission to redeem the world – Service: Jesus’ primary notion of leadership.

How Does The Church Function?

• Sanctifying – Sacraments/ – Prayer/Devotions – Works of mercy (traditionally: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and imprisoned, sheltering the homeless, and burying the dead) • Teaching – Preaching/Teaching – Clarifying (through documents, synods, councils) – Lived experience of the faithful • Governing – Local communities (Bishops//Pastoral Councils) – Union with others and Rome – Mission (focus on the world) Gifts of the Holy Spirit

• Pick one of the 7 Gifts to focus on (see worksheet in your packet) • How can you cultivate one of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit this week and this year? The 7 Gifts of the Holy SpiritTh

But a shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom. The spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and of understanding, A spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the LORD, and his delight shall be the fear of the LORD. ~Isaiah 11:1-3 • They are strengthened in you through the Sacrament of Confirmation. • They belong in their fullness to Christ, Son of David [hence, they make us more like Christ]. (CCC 1831) • They complete and perfect the virtues of those who receive them [they build on natural virtues and on our faith]. • They make the faithful docile in readily obeying divine inspirations [so that we can help build God’s kingdom] Wisdom: the desire to know the things of God, to value what God values Understanding: penetrating insight into the very heart of things… Knowledge: The ability to know the truth, fact from fiction, to guide our life. Courage: overcoming fear, willing to take risks as a follower of Jesus Christ. Right Judgment/Counsel: knowing between right & wrong, & choosing right Reverence: a deep sense of respect and love for God and the Church Wonder and Awe/Fear of the Lord: awareness of God’s majesty and glory How can you receive and develop ONE of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit this week and this year? WRITE HERE Rite of Baptism for One Child RECEPTION OF THE CHILD

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.

It is the role of the father and mother, accompanied by the godparents, to present the child to the Church for baptism.

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.

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.

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," "the grace of Christ," "entrance into the Church," "eternal life."

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.

Then the celebrant turns to the godparents and addresses them in these or similar words: RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 2 Are you ready to help the parents of this child in their duty as Christian parents?

GODPARENTS: We do.

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.

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 84: 7, 8, 9ab. CELEBRATION OF GOD'S WORD Scriptural Readings and Homily

One or even two of the following gospel passages are read, during which all may sit if convenient.

John 3: 1-6: The meeting with Nicodemus.

Matthew 28: 18-20: The apostles are sent to preach and to baptize.

Mark 1: 9-11: The .

Mark 10: 13-16: Let the little children come to me.

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.

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.

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. Intercessions

Then the prayer of the faithful is said:

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. RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 3

LEADER: 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.

LEADER: Through baptism and confirmation, make him (her) your faithful follower and a witness to your gospel.

ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.

LEADER: Lead him (her) by a holy life to the joys of God's kingdom.

ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.

LEADER: Make the lives of his (her) parents and godparents examples of faith to inspire this child.

ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.

LEADER: Keep his (her) family always in your love.

ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.

LEADER:Renew the grace of our baptism in each one of us.

ALL: Lord, hear our prayer.

Other forms may be chosen from nos. 217-220.

The celebrant next invites all present to invoke the saints:

CELEBRANT: Holy Mary, Mother of God.

ALL: Pray for us. John the Baptist.

ALL: Pray for us.

Saint Joseph. ALL: Pray for us. Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

ALL: Pray for us. RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 4 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 and Anointing Before Baptism

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.

For another form of the prayer of exorcism, see no. 221.

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.

He anoints the child on the breast with the oil of catechumens.

If, for serious reasons, the conference of bishops so decides, the anointing before baptism may be omitted. [in the United States, it may be omitted only when the minister of baptism judges the omission to be pastorally necessary or desirable.] 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.

And immediately he lays his hand on the child in silence.

Then they go to the baptistry, or to the sanctuary when baptism is celebrated there on occasion. CELEBRATION OF THE SACRAMENT

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: My dear brothers and sisters, we now ask God to give this child new life in abundance RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 5 through water and the Holy Spirit. Blessing and Invocation of God over Baptismal Water

Then, turning to the font, he says the following blessing (outside the Easter season). 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. You created man in your own likeness: cleanse him from sin in a new birth to innocence by water and the 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.

Other forms may be chosen from nos. 223-224.

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 nos. 223-224, with the variation indicated at the end of each text. Renunciation of Sin and Profession of Faith

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. RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 6 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.

The celebrant questions the parents and godparents:

CELEBRANT: Do you reject Satan?

PARENTS AND GODPARENTS: I do.

CELEBRANT: And all his works?

PARENTS AND GODPARENTS: I do.

The celebrant may instead use the following three initial questions:

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.

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 RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 7 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 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

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.

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. After the child is baptized, it is appropriate for the people to sing a short acclamation. (See nos. 225-245.) 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. RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 8 Anointing with Chrism

Then the celebrant says: 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.

Then the celebrant anoints the child on the crown of the head with the sacred chrism, in silence. Clothing with the White Garment

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

The celebrant takes the Easter candle and says: Receive the light of Christ.

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

If the conference of bishops decides to preserve the practice, the rite of Ephphetha follows. [in the United States it may be performed at the discretion of the minister.] The celebrant touches the ears and mouth of the child with his RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 9 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. CONCLUSION OF THE RITE

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. Lord's Prayer

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:

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

The celebrant first blesses the mother, who holds the child in her arms, then the father, and lastly the entire assembly:

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. RITE OF BAPTISM FOR ONE CHILD PAGE 10

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.

For other forms of the blessing, see nos.247-249.

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. Preview of Mass Readings for Sunday, January 13th, 2019 Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord

Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7 Thus says the LORD: Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, upon whom I have put my spirit; he shall bring forth justice to the nations, not crying out, not shouting, not making his voice heard in the street. a bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench, until he establishes justice on the earth; the coastlands will wait for his teaching.

I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.

Responsorial Psalm—Psalm 29: 1-3, 9-10

R. (11b) The Lord will bless his people with peace.

Give to the LORD, you sons of God, give to the LORD glory and praise, Give to the LORD the glory due his name; adore the LORD in holy attire.

The voice of the LORD is over the waters, the LORD, over vast waters. The voice of the LORD is mighty; the voice of the LORD is majestic.

The God of glory thunders, and in his temple all say, "Glory!" The LORD is enthroned above the flood; the LORD is enthroned as king forever.

Acts of the Apostles 10: 34-38

Peter proceeded to speak to those gathered in the house of Cornelius, saying: "In truth, I see that God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him. You know the word that he sent to the Israelites as he proclaimed peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all, what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him."

Luke 3: 15-16, 21-22

The people were filled with expectation, and all were asking in their hearts whether John might be the Christ. John answered them all, saying, "I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

After all the people had been baptized and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."