By Water and the Holy Spirit: Preparing for Catholic Infant Baptism

For parents participating in any Catholic parish baptism preparation program, here is a brief, readable introduction to the theology and pastoral practice of baptizing infants. In just 24 pages, the booklet covers the close connection between baptism and Easter; baptism as a sacrament of initiation; a basic overview of the baptism liturgy; and answers to some frequently asked questions. A final chapter suggests a variety of ways parents can make the baptism of their child a starting place for religious formation as a family. The author, Thomas Baker, is a deacon at St. David the King Parish in Princeton Junction, NJ, and a widely published writer with more than 25 years' experience leading baptism classes for parents.