Sacraments Unit 3: Baptism and Confirmation

Vocabulary study guide covering key terms, symbols, essential words, actions, and theological concepts for the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation.

Catechumen

A person who has never been baptized and is preparing to enter the Church.

Candidate

A baptized person who is preparing to complete their initiation into the Catholic Church.

RCIA

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults; the process by which adults commonly receive the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil.

Christ

A title meaning "anointed one".

Anamnesis

Remembering and proclaiming God’s saving actions.

Epiclesis

Calling upon the Holy Spirit to act.

Matter of Baptism

Water.

Essential Words of Baptism

"I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

Ordinary Ministers of Baptism

Bishops, priests, and deacons.

Effects of Baptism

Sins are forgiven, new life in Christ is received, and the baptized become members of the Church and the Body of Christ.

Theological Reasons for Infant Baptism

Removes original sin, welcomes infants into the Church and God's family, and demonstrates that God's grace is a free gift rather than something earned.

Emergency Baptism

Circumstances, especially when someone is in danger of death, in which someone other than an ordinary minister may baptize.

Water (Baptismal Symbol)

Symbolizes cleansing and new life.

Oil (Baptismal Symbol)

Symbolizes strength and anointing.

White Garment

A baptismal symbol representing new life in Christ.

Baptismal Candle

A symbol representing Christ as the light of the world.

Lifelong Conversion

Continuing to grow closer to God and trying to live as Jesus taught.

Godparents

Sponsors whose role is to support the baptized person in growing in the Catholic faith.

Priest, Prophet, and King

The three-fold mission of Christ that baptized Christians share in by worshiping God, proclaiming his message, and serving others.

Chrism

Consecrated oil used as the matter in Confirmation.

Pentecost

The event when the Holy Spirit came upon Jesus’ disciples, which is recalled in the sacrament of Confirmation.

Confirmation

A sacrament of Christian initiation that strengthens baptismal grace and deepens a person’s relationship with Christ and the Church.

Essential Words of Confirmation

"Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit".

Essential Actions of Confirmation

The laying on of hands and anointing with Chrism.

Laying on of Hands

An action symbolizing calling upon the Holy Spirit to strengthen the person.

Anointing with Chrism (Symbolism)

Symbolizes being sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Renewal of Baptismal Promises

A renewal made during Confirmation that demonstrates the direct connection between Baptism and Confirmation.

Wisdom

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means seeing things from God’s perspective.

Understanding

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means understanding the truths of faith.

Right Judgement (Counsel)

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means choosing what is right.

Courage (Fortitude)

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means standing up for what is right.

Knowledge

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means recognizing God’s truth.

Reverence (Piety)

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means loving and respecting God.

Wonder and Awe

A gift of the Holy Spirit that means respecting God’s greatness.