Baptism is a sacrament of the Catholic Church that holds special significance in the lives of believers, as it is a rite of Christian initiation that marks the path towards a spiritual life. As the first sacrament received, it is necessary in order to receive the others, acting as an encounter with God that cleanses sin and makes believers children of God. This rite of adoption also incorporates believers into the Church and confers a commitment to follow Christ and spread His message. Traditionally, baptism is celebrated with the use of water, either by immersing the recipient in water or pouring water over the head of the baptized, while the words are pronounced: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” It is also considered a necessary rite for salvation and to ensure entry into eternal beatitude.
Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”