What are baptismal rites?

Answer 1

First, the infant to be baptized is brought to the church by his parents and godparents. The priest, who represents Jesus for us, meet the family at the entrance and welcomes the baby into the community of God. This shows us that by Baptism we are made members of the holy Church.

Then the Liturgy of the Word takes place. The readings remind us that God has commanded Baptism for our salvation. After the homily and Litany of the Saints (after one of whom we are usually named), the ceremony reaches its most important part: the exorcism and actual Baptism with water.

Original sin put us under the evil influence of the devil, for Adam and Eve chose to believe him rather than God. Exorcism is the Church's powerful way of destroying this influence. The prayer of exorcism says: Almighty and everlasting 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 free from original sin, make him a temple of your glory, and send your Holy Spirit to dwell with him. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen. (Rite of Baptism)

After the exorcism the priest anoints the baby with the oil of the catechumens. Next, the baby, through the lips of his parents and godparents, rejects sin and San and accepts the teachings of Jesus as stated in the Creed. Then the priest carries out the actual sacrament by pouring water while saying the words of Baptism. The final ceremonial actions are the anointing with chrism, the clothing, and the lighting of the baptismal candle.

This anointing is done with a special oil called chrism. This is blessed by the bishop and is used to show that the new Christian shares in Christ's triple mission as prophet, priest, and king. The priest says this prayer while anointing the baby: God the Father 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 members of his body, sharing everlasting life. Amen.(Rite of Baptism)

Then the infant receives a white garment. The colour white is an ancient symbol for purity and sinlessness. A new white candle is also given to him as a reminder of Our Lord, who is the true Light of the world . It also calls to mind Jesus' words to his followers: "You are the light of the world. . . Your light must shine before men so that they may see goodness in your acts and give praise to your Heavenly Father" (Mt 5:14, 16).

Answer 2

Being sprinkled with water (or immersed) for the forgiveness of sins.

Answer 3

All that's necessary is to pour the water over the person's head and say "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit"