In the Beginning: The Sacrament of Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism
In the Catholic Church, baptisms happen all year round. It is a sacrament of joy and hope for families as well as the Church. But what does it mean that Baptism is a sacrament, and why does that matter for parents and godparents? Let’s explore the sacrament of Baptism!
What is the Sacrament of Baptism?
Being baptized in the Catholic Church has been one of the greatest gifts of my own faith life. The Catholic Church practices infant baptism. As a sacrament, this means the act of baptism affects what it signifies -- it is not merely symbolic. It is not just a symbol that the child is becoming a member of the Body of Christ -- the child actually does become a member of the Body of Christ by virtue of the grace of the sacrament. Baptism removes the stain of original sin and imparts this special grace, which is much more than just a symbol.
What this Means for Parents
For parents, the baptism of a child is obviously an important milestone celebrated with family and friends. However, it can also be a turning point in the lives of parents. Now that they’ve been entrusted with a new life, they often become more motivated to learn their faith and become more involved in living it out in their lives to set a good example.
In the Catholic Church, preparing for a child to be baptized usually involves a few months of formation on the part of the parents. In baptism, parents commit to raising their child in the Catholic faith, which is why the faith formation of parents is so important!
The Role of Godparents
Godparents also have an important role to play. They are present when the child is baptized, and they also commit to being a good example of faith in the child’s life. They will play an important role by serving as a role model in living the Catholic faith as the child grows up. This is why it is important to carefully consider who you will choose to be your child’s godparents - it forms a bond that lasts well into adulthood!
The Perfect Baptism Gifts
The date of a child’s baptism is one that can be celebrated throughout the child’s life. So a keepsake is a perfect way to remember this special day and keep the memory of this gift of faith and sacramental grace close at hand all the time.
Our “I Have Called You By Name” Door Rosary is the perfect baptism keepsake for your child or for you as a parent. Each one is handmade and handcrafted, and hand stained with a finished cross and your choice of rope color.
It’s also important to say thank you to your child’s godparents for the time and prayers they will invest in your child in this special role. You can say “thank you” with a small keepsake like one of our Beaded Bookmarks or Keepsake Bookmarks!
Baptism is an incredible gift and an important occasion in a child’s life. But it also has a profound impact on the lives and the faith of the parents and godparents. Let’s remember in prayer those who will be baptized or have their children baptized soon!
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