were opened and the Holy Ghost appeared descending upon Christ our Lord, in form of a dove;[1] by which we are given to understand, that to those who are baptized are imparted the gifts of the Holy Spirit, that to them are unfolded the gates of Heaven, opening to them an entrance into glory; not, it is true, immediately after baptism, but in due season, when freed from the miseries of this life, which are incompatible with a state of bliss, they shall exchange a mortal for an immortal life.
Efficacy of the Sacrament common to all, not so its gifts and graces.These are the fruits of baptism, which, as far as regards the efficacy of the Sacrament, are, no doubt, common to all; but as far as regards the dispositions with which it is received, it is no less certain that all do not participate equally of these heavenly gifts and graces.
The prayers, rites, and ceremonies of baptism, to be explained.It now remains to explain, clearly and concisely, what regards the prayers, rites, and ceremonies of this Sacrament. To rites and ceremonies may, in some measure, be applied what the Apostle says of the gift of tongues, that it is unprofitable to speak, unless he who hears understands.[2] They present an image, and convey the signification of the things that are done in the Sacrament; but if the people understand not their force and significancy, they can be of very little advantage to them. To make them understood, therefore, and to impress the minds of the faithful with a conviction that, although not of absolute necessity, they are of very great importance, and challenge great veneration, are matters which solicit the zeal and industry of the pastor. This, the authority of those by whom they were instituted, who were, no doubt, the Apostles, and also the object of their institution, sufficiently prove. That ceremonies contribute to the more religious and holy administration of the Sacraments, serve to exhibit to the eyes of the beholder a lively picture of the exalted and inestimable gifts which they contain, and impress on the minds of the faithful a deeper sense of the boundless beneficence of God, are truths as obvious as they are unquestionable.[3]
Reduced to three headsBut that in his expositions the pastor may follow a certain order, and that the people may find it easier to recollect his instructions, all the ceremonies and prayers which the Church uses in the administration of baptism, are to be reduced to three heads. The first comprehends such as are observed before coming to the baptismal font—the second, such as are used at the font—the third, those that immediately follow the administration of the Sacrament.
I.
The water, consecration of.In the first place, then, the water to be used in baptism should be previously prepared: the baptismal water is consecrated with the oil of mystic unction; and this cannot be done at all times, but, according to ancient usage, on the vigils of certain festivals, which are justly deemed the greatest and the most holy solem
