baptism

Baptism: 

As we prepare for the birth of our first (4 more weeks!), I have started thinking more and more about baptism which we joyfully look forward to.

What does baptism mean?

Baptism is a sacrament.  It is our first sacrament and the foundation for a life with Christ.  Through baptism we are reborn as a member of the Church.  How beautiful is that? 

It is in baptism (from the Greek baptizein-meaning to immerse or plunge) that we are cleansed from sin.  Our sin is not washed in the water-it is buried in it.  Made to be no more.

As parents (and godparents) we accept the responsibility of raising the child in the church.  

Loyola Press provides a wonderful (brief) explanation of this beautiful sacrament.

Does timing matter?

Timing of children matters, whether "planned" or not.  Yes, baptism timing matters.  I was surprised to be the only young couple at our baptism preparation class that didn't already have an infant.  Our parish requires a class at least 6 months prior to baptism, so we attended when I was about 4 months pregnant. As a parent, I want my child to be freed from original sin and joined as a member of the church.  

Can.  867 §1. Parents are obliged to take care that infants are baptized in the first few weeks; as soon as possible after the birth or even before it, they are to go to the pastor to request the sacrament for their child and to be prepared properly for it.

It is in baptism that we encounter Christ for the first time, why wait!  Pope Francis has told people to celebrate the day they were baptized. He was baptized at 8 days old :)