RELIGION: STUDIES OF RELIGION Extended Response Question 1. Evaluate the importance of baptism to Christian belief in Australia today. OR 2. Baptism is an essential vehicle for the expression of the beliefs of Christianity Analyse this statement with respect to both the individual and the Christian community. (20 marks) Baptism is an essential vehicle for the expression of the beliefs for the individual and the community. Core Christian beliefs are expressed during baptism through the use of water, profession of faith, light, anointing with oil and the use of white garments. In terms of the individual, baptism is a significant rite of initiation and for the wider community baptism becomes the acceptance of a new member into the universal Church. In particular, the differences between the practices of the denominations such as Catholic and Baptist Churches convey their slight differences in beliefs. To begin with, crucial Christian beliefs are expressed during the ritual of baptism. The symbol of water to purify and cleanse one from original sin is demonstrated when water is poured on the head or full immersion occurs. Moreover, the purification by water three times is indicative of the Holy Trinity. Moving into and out of the water reminds Christians of their belief in the death and resurrection of Christ which they now have shared in; “You created man in your own likeness: cleanse him from sin in a new birth to innocence by water and the Spirit” (Catholic service). A profession of faith is said during the recitation of the Nicene Creed and Baptismal Vows. The creed contains the essence of Christian belief as well as continuing to reaffirm it. A testimony of faith is made by the individual or on behalf of the child when the baptismal vows are said. They contain beliefs in one God as creator, the Trinity and the death and resurrection of Christ. Another element of baptism is light. The baptismal candle is symbolic of the strength and light of the risen Lord. By following this light, Christians believe they will ultimately receive salvation; “whoever follows me will never will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). Chrismation is undertaken in Greek Orthodox Churches and symbolizes the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the Roman Catholic Church, the Oil of Catechumens represents the healing and forgiveness of God; “We anoint you with the oil of salvation in the name of Christ our Saviour”. The use of white garments expresses the belief in purity and innocence of new life begun at baptism. Furthermore, baptism is significant for the new adherent as it establishes their relationship with God through a commitment to live a Christ-centered life. The forgiveness of sins and the attainment of salvation allows Christians to be granted eternal life. The individual now has the responsibility to spread the Good News guided by the Holy Spirit. The baptismal rite is significant for the wider community as they welcome a new member. The community, especially the parents and godparents, have the responsibility to nurture the individual on their faith journey through the celebration of Christ. The participation of the congregation reminds the community that salvation is a community-driven goal. In the Roman Catholic Church, the baptismal candle is lit from the Pascal Candle. This demonstrates the unity of the community in that they all draw from the same source. The recitation of the profession of faith reaffirms and strengthens the entire community, calling them to reflect upon their own faith. In addition, the contrast between denominations and how they practice the rite of baptism, conveys their slight differences in belief. For example, Catholic and Orthodox churches believe baptism a necessary vehicle for salvation. However, Baptist and Uniting churches believe that it is rather symbolic of their covenant with God and is not necessary for salvation. Most Catholic baptisms are performed on infants and expresses the Catholic view that children are important member of the Church. Baptists on the other hand practice ‘believer’s baptism’ of adults only which conveys their belief in a conscientious personal commitment to Christ and an informed agreement actively made by the individual. In conclusion, baptism is an integral rite of initiation into most Christian Churches. It is an essential vehicle for the expression of individual and communal beliefs in the death and resurrection of Christ, the Holy Spirit, forgiveness of sins and the attainment of salvation. These beliefs are reflected in the symbols of water, light, profession of faith, oil and the colour white. For individual, they commit to a religious life and the community now has the duty to allow the spiritual growth of the individual and by doing so reaffirm their own faith. .