Exorcisms and Profession of Faith
Because Baptism signifies liberation from sin and from the one who brings about sin, Satan, one or more exorcisms are said over each candidate. The priest asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that each person be protected against the Power of Satan and the lure of sin. The celebrant then annoints each candidate with the Oil of Catechumens, or lay hands on him or her. Each person is thus prepared to confess the faith of the Church, which will be entrusted to the candidate by Baptism.
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The Word of God
The multiple Scripture readings and Responsorial Psalms from the Easter Vigil teach that God always initiates our relationship with him. God calls us and invites us to become his sons and daughters. We in turn, respond in faith by committing ourselves to follow his son, Jesus.
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Essential Rite of Baptism
The celebrant immerses each candidate in the blessed water three times or pours water three times over the candidate's head. At the same time, the celbrant says, "N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit".
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Blessing of the Water
The celebrant calls on the Holy Spirit to bless the water that will be used for Baptism.
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Recieving or Clothing in a White Garment
Each of the neophytes either recieves or is dressed in a white robe that "is a symbol of their new dignity" (Christian Initiation of Adults 33). The white robe signifies that the person is now freed from the darkness of sin and has "put on Christ."
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Annoiting with Sacred Chrism
If the celebration of Confirmation does not follow immediately, the celebrant anoints each newly baptized on the crown of the head with consecrated oil known as Sacred Chrism. The annointing symbolizes a special coming of the Holy Spirit to th newly baptized. It signifies that a new character, or identity, has been given to that person.
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Recieving of a Lit Candle
Each neophyte is next given a small white candle lit from the Easter Candle, which was blessed and lit earlier in the Easter Vigil service. The small candle has two meanings. First, it symbolizes that Christ has enlightened the person. Second, it symbolizes that the neophytes also have the responsibility to bring the light of Christ to today's world.
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