Can a Catholic attend a Lutheran baptism?

Yes, you are welcome to attend. No matter where it takes place, and who administers it, baptism is valid if it involves immersion, pouring, or sprinkling with water, and a Trinitarian formula.

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Baptism is a valid Christian rite of initiation involving the use of water and the recitation of the Trinitarian formula, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit." While it may be administered by various individuals in different locations, the use of this formula is essential for the baptism to be considered valid.

 

Most Protestant denominations in the United States believe in the Trinity, but those who specifically deny this belief do not administer valid baptisms. Even those with no faith can baptize validly if they intend to follow the Church's intentions for the rite. When a child or adult is baptized in a Lutheran Church, they are forgiven of original sin and become a member of the Body of Christ, although their connection to the Church may not be complete.

 

In certain situations, a Catholic may serve as a witness at a non-Catholic baptism to support the baptism and commit to helping the child grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. It is important to discuss these circumstances with a pastor if a Catholic is asked to serve as a godparent in a non-Catholic baptism. The Vatican's Directory for the Application of Principles and Norms on Ecumenism states that Catholics and other Christians can renew their commitment to a full Christian life and work towards healing divisions among Christians by commemorating the baptism that unites them.