The Symbols of Baptism and their Meaning
Where should we pick for an upcoming baptism?
What is means to be a symbol
In the celebration of Baptism, as with all Sacraments, various material elements, symbolic gestures, words, songs, and non-verbal signs are used to give meaning to this sacred and essential rite in a Christian's life. A few of the symbolic elements that are worth exploring are the water used for immersion, the chrism, the oil of the catechumens, the light of the candle, and the white robe.
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The Symbol of Water
Water plays a vital role in baptism, cleansing the recipient's body and soul of all traces of sin. Universally recognized as the ultimate symbol of life, water nourishes and sustains the earth, enabling it to bear fruit. Its purifying properties make it ideal for washing away impurities and cleansing our souls of all blemishes.
The Symbol of Chrism
The chrism is a sacred oil that sanctifies and confirms the entry of the baptized into the Church family. It is also used in Confirmation and priestly ordination. During baptism, the oil is applied to the forehead, creating a seal that consecrates the individual in their new role. Similarly, during Confirmation, the priest draws a cross on the forehead of the Confirmed as a symbol of the Holy Spirit enlisting them as a ‘soldier’ ​​of Christ. In priestly ordination, the oil is used to anoint the palms of the hands of the presbyters and the foreheads of the bishops. This fragrant oil is blessed once a year by the Bishop during the Chrism Mass of Holy Thursday and then distributed to each parish, along with the oil for the sick and the oil for the catechumens.
The Symbol of The Baptismal Candle
The candle given to the parents or godparents of the baptized represents Jesus, the light of the world. It is hoped that the child will be enlightened by Christ and supported by loved ones in their faith journey. The Church provides guidance for new members to find their own path in the world. Light is a powerful symbol in Christianity; it was God's first creation and a representation of faith in the Old Testament. With Jesus' arrival, light gained new meanings for believers. As Jesus told his disciples, "You are the light of the world...let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven" (Matt. 5:16).
The Symbol of The Baptismal Garment
During a Baptism ceremony, one of the most significant elements is the white gown that is given to the newly baptised person. This symbolic garment is a representation of the new life and the new dignity that the baptised person has acquired.
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This tradition dates back to ancient times when those who were baptised had to wear a new, white garment before joining the other faithful in the Church. The white garment was seen as a sign of spiritual rebirth and purity, and it expressed the profound change and interior renewal that the sacrament of Baptism has brought into the person who received it.
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The white color of the gown is also significant, as it represents the purity and innocence of the newly baptised person. This is a reminder that through Baptism, the person has been cleansed of their sins and is now free to start anew with a clean slate.
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The white gown also serves as a visual representation of the person's new identity as a Christian. It signifies their membership in the Church and their commitment to living a life of faith and virtue. It is a reminder that they are now part of a larger community of believers, and that they are called to live in accordance with the teachings of Christ.
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Overall, the white gown is a powerful symbol of the transformative power of the sacrament of Baptism. It represents the new life, new dignity, purity, and spiritual rebirth that are experienced by the newly baptised person, and it serves as a reminder of their identity as a Christian and their commitment to living a life of faith. Just make sure you get a good fit!