A Roman Catholic Theology Of Baptism

This article describes a Roman Catholic theology of baptism by examining the images and actions of the liturgy itself. Note the close connection between the theological position and the liturgical action that is always an important characteristic of liturgical worship. The sacrament of baptism in the Roman Catholic church has changed and developed in its ritual structure and the interpretation of that structure throughout the centuries. From the advantageous position of the contemporary church, we can look back and see that, just as there is not a single way to do baptism, there is also not a single theology of baptism within the tradition. Therefore, it is more correct to speak of theologies of baptism, rather than a single interpretation, and these various meanings are summarized in one of the opening paragraphs of the general introduction to Christian initiation: Baptism incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God's people. This first sacrament pardons all our sins, rescues…