The Sacraments of Initiation
Welcoming, Strengthening, Nourishing Your Faith JourneyBaptism, Confirmation & Eucharist
The Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church are Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
These sacraments lay the foundation for the Christian life, initiating individuals into the Church and its mission.
Baptism
Purpose: Baptism is the first sacrament and the gateway to the Christian life. It cleanses original sin, incorporates the individual into the Body of Christ (the Church), and marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith.
How It’s Done: Typically involves pouring or immersion in water, accompanied by the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Significance: It signifies spiritual rebirth, forgiveness of sins, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. For infants, it’s often celebrated soon after birth; for adults, it may follow catechesis (e.g., through the RCIA program).
Biblical Basis: Matthew 28:19–20, where Jesus commands the apostles to baptize all nations.
Eucharist
Purpose: The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life, where Catholics receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ under the appearances of bread and wine.
How It’s Done: During Mass, bread and wine are consecrated through the priest’s words and actions, becoming Christ’s true presence. Catholics receive it in Communion.
Significance: It nourishes spiritual life, unites believers with Christ and each other, and anticipates the heavenly banquet. First Communion typically occurs around age 7–8 after preparation.
Biblical Basis: John 6:53–58 and the Last Supper accounts (e.g., Matthew 26:26–28).
Confirmation
Purpose: The Sacrament of Confirmation in the Catholic Church strengthens the baptized with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, completing their initiation into the Christian life and empowering them to be active witnesses of Christ.
How It’s Done: During a Confirmation ceremony, typically within a Mass, the bishop (or a delegated priest) lays hands on the candidate, prays for the Holy Spirit, and anoints their forehead with sacred chrism (blessed oil) while saying, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” Candidates prepare through catechesis and choose a sponsor for support.
Significance: Confirmation deepens baptismal grace, equipping Catholics with the Holy Spirit’s gifts (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord) to live out their faith boldly and spread the Gospel. It is typically received in adolescence, around ages 12–16, though this varies by diocese.
Biblical Basis: Acts 8:14–17 (Peter and John laying hands on the baptized to receive the Holy Spirit) and Acts 2:1–4 (the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost).