Signs, symbols and gestures in the sacrament of Baptism

Abstract

In this research we will be studying the meaning of the liturgy used in the sacrament of baptism. We will be concentrating our research on the signs, symbols and gestures in baptism, as the title of this study tells us. For the sake of brievity we will be limiting the study to the signs, symbols and gestures used in infant baptism. The study will commence by defining the terms liturgy and sign, symbol and gesture which are the elements in the liturgy which give it a participative human element in our sacramental worship. An interesting topic which will be dealt with, is the process of symboling and its relevance in today's liturgy so as to have a more meaningful liturgy, which is understood by the assembly enabling them to have a more participative role. Chapter Two will concentrate on the sacrament of baptism and the rite involved in this sacrament of initiation. Reference to the Ordo Baptismi Parvulorum, (1969) will be made for outlining the various signs, symbols and gestures in the rite for infant baptism. The various signs, symbols and gestures used in the baptismal rite for infants are outlined in chapters three and four. In these two chapters some historical research was done to give a clearer picture of the significance of the elements making up the rite. This being done in the light to make the liturgy in infant baptism more understood by the community, thus enabling more participation.