Z mistagogii celebracji chrztu dzieci w świetle Katechizmu Kościoła Katolickiego

Abstract

According to the Catechism, the celebration of the sacraments is made up of holy signs, symbols and rituals into which participants should be initiated. The liturgical catechesis serves to this end, it is also called "mystagogy," that is initiation into the mystery of Christ, a mystery hidden and put into practice for the faithful by means of signs, symbolical acts and verbal formulas. First the author shows a close relationship between the liturgy and catechesis, and then explains the most important symbolical signs and acts in the liturgy of the baptism of children. We find here first the liturgical congregation in which baptism is being celebrated. It is the sign of the Church in which baptism is being given and into which it initiates. The main agent in the sacraments is Christ, but His sign is each giving baptism. Then the signs directly linked with baptism are discussed: the sign of the cross on the forehead, the symbolical introduction into the Church, exorcism and laying the hands on the head, the symbolism of the baptismal font and immersing into the baptismal water or pouring with it. There are some rituals which indicate the invisible effects of the sacrament of baptism during its celebration: the anointing of the oil of the holy chrism, giving the white robe and light from the paschal candle. The interpretation of the most important signs and symbolical acts of the baptismal liturgy, as they have been presented here, has been based on the data of the Holy Scriptures, the tradition of the Church and contemporary theological literature.