Complete Guide to an Unforgettable Catholic Baptism

Introduction: The Beginning of an Unforgettable Spiritual Adventure

Embarking on the organization of a child's baptism is the beginning of one of the most exciting and meaningful adventures for a family. It is a moment filled with love, hope, and a deep connection to faith. More than a simple tradition or social gathering, Catholic baptism is the gateway to a life illuminated by divine grace, the first step on a spiritual journey that will accompany your loved one forever.

The "why" of this sacrament resonates with particular beauty: Baptism is the foundation of the entire Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door that opens access to the other sacraments. Through it, as the Church teaches, we are freed from sin, regenerated as children of God, become members of Christ, and are incorporated into the Church, made sharers in her mission. It is, in essence, being born to a new life as children of God. This understanding transforms the perception of the event: baptism is not the end of a preparation, but the beautiful beginning of a life illuminated by faith, the gateway to a community that will accompany your child in every step of their spiritual growth.

This sacred journey is designed for you: Parents , the heroes and protagonists of this story, who with love and dedication embark on the mission of initiating your child on the path of faith. It is also for you, Godparents , the wise mentors and spiritual guides, carefully chosen for this momentous journey, called to be beacons of light and example. And, of course, for you, dear Guests , the community that witnesses, celebrates, and supports with your presence and prayers, forming a circle of love around the new Christian. The decision to baptize a child, although often tied to the family tradition we value so much in Colombia, represents a profound act of faith and a genuine hope on the part of the parents for the spiritual future of their little one. This search for meaning and the choice of such a fundamental sacrament suggest a longing that goes beyond social custom; it is an investment in the spiritual well-being of the child, a desire this guide seeks to validate and nurture.

Listen to a summary of what our guide brings you:

In the following pages, you will find a detailed map, a guide that we hope will be complete, but which we understand cannot be exhaustive enough to cover all the diverse circumstances and budgets. However, it will help you navigate each stage of organizing an unforgettable Catholic Baptism in Colombia. From understanding its profound significance to the practical details of planning and celebration, the goal is to accompany you so that you may experience this moment with joy, serenity, profound meaning, and the confidence of being wonderfully prepared. The multiplicity of roles in baptism—parents, godparents, guests—underscores an essential truth: the Catholic faith is lived and celebrated in community. Godparents, for example, are not just caring figures but act as "representatives of a community of faith," and the Church herself presents herself to us as "mother" and "educator of our faith." Each person, in their own place, contributes to the fabric of this great family that welcomes the new member with open arms.

The Call to Faith: Understanding the Greatness of Baptism

Before diving into the details of planning, it's essential to pause for a moment to contemplate the immense spiritual richness of Baptism. Understanding its "why" will not only illuminate each step of the planning process, but will also imbue this beautiful gift you are offering your child with deeper meaning.

The Deep Meaning: What is Baptism in the Catholic Church?

Baptism is much more than a ceremony; it is a transformative sacrament. It is the rite by which a person is "born into spiritual life," becoming a son or daughter of God and a living member of the Church, the great family of believers. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church expresses it, through Baptism "we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God, we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and are made sharers in her mission."

This sacrament is the gateway to Christian life, the "foundation of all Christian life." Upon receiving it, the child or adult is freed from original sin, that common heritage of humanity, and is infused with sanctifying grace, which is the friendship and life of God in the soul. It is a new beginning, a spiritual regeneration that conforms us to Christ.

Understanding this greatness is fundamental. When parents and godparents internalize that Baptism is the beginning of a life in communion with God and the Church, the preparations and commitments that this sacrament entails take on a new dimension, transforming them from mere formalities into joyful expressions of faith and love.

Symbols that Speak to the Soul: Deciphering the Sacred Language of Ritual

The ceremony of Baptism is filled with beautiful and profound symbols that speak to us of the spiritual realities we are experiencing. Understanding them allows us to participate with greater awareness and fruitfulness. The symbolic richness of baptism is not merely decorative, but pedagogical and transformative; each symbol has deep biblical and theological roots that seek to communicate sacramental grace.

• Water: It is the central symbol of Baptism. It represents purification, death to sin, and birth to new life in Christ. Water has been the source of life and fruitfulness since the beginning of the world, over which the Spirit of God "hovered."
• The Light (Baptismal Candle): During the rite, a lit candle from the Paschal Candle is given to the parents or godparents. It represents the Risen Christ, the "true light that enlightens every person." This light symbolizes the faith the newly baptized person has received and is called to keep alive, being a light for the world. The presentation of this candle is a visual reminder of the responsibility of parents and godparents to nurture that flame of faith in the child's heart.
• The White Garment: After Baptism, a white garment is placed on the child. This color is universally recognized as a symbol of purity, innocence, and joy. In the baptismal context, it signifies that the baptized person has "put on Christ" and acquired a new dignity as a child of God. It is an outward sign of the inner transformation and grace received.
• Holy Chrism (Holy Oil): This is a perfumed oil consecrated by the Bishop. The anointing with Holy Chrism on the crown of the baptized person signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit and their consecration to God. Through this anointing, the new Christian shares in Christ's triple mission: Priest, Prophet, and King.
• The Rite of "Effetá": This is a very eloquent rite, although sometimes optional in some communities. The priest touches the child's ears and mouth, saying "Effetá," which means "Open." This gesture is inspired by the miracle of Jesus narrated in the Gospel of Mark (7:31-37), when he cured a deaf. It symbolizes the opening of the spiritual senses of the baptized person: the ears to hear the Word of God and the mouth to proclaim the faith and praise Him. It is a call to a living and transformative communication with God and with the community.

You can find more details about the Symbols of Catholic Baptism at this link .

Paving the Way: Essential First Steps

Once the heart grasps the magnitude of Baptism, planning becomes an act of love and dedication. This initial stage is crucial to ensure everything flows smoothly and joyfully.

The Joyful Decision: Setting the Date and the Church

The first practical step is to decide when and where the sacrament will be celebrated. The choice of date may take into account practical aspects, such as the availability of family and godparents, or the season of the year. Liturgically, although Baptism can be celebrated any day, the Church advises that, ordinarily, it be administered on Sunday, the Lord's Day, or, if possible, on the Easter Vigil, the holiest night of the year. Many parishes in Colombia have specific dates for community baptisms, for example, the second and fourth Saturdays of the month.

Regarding the church , it's ideal to choose the parish to which the family belongs, thus fostering integration into the local community. However, you can also choose a church with special significance for the family, or one conveniently located near the venue of the subsequent celebration. It's essential to contact the parish office well in advance to find out about availability, specific requirements, and whether they offer individual or community baptisms.

Documentation: The Passport to the Celebration

Document preparation is a fundamental aspect. Rigorous documentation, such as requesting recent civil and sacramental records, reflects the importance the Catholic Church places on the identity, affiliation, and sacramental traceability of its faithful. This not only ensures the validity and legitimacy of the sacrament, but also maintains an accurate historical record, essential for ecclesial life and for the future sacraments of the baptized person.

If you require more detailed information on commonly requested documents, click here .

The Pre-Baptismal Course: A Meeting to Grow in Faith

The pre-baptismal course is an essential requirement in most parishes for parents and godparents. Far from being a mere formality, it is a valuable opportunity to delve deeper into the meaning of Baptism, understand the responsibilities assumed, and strengthen one's faith.

• Why is it important? These meetings seek to ensure that those presenting a child for Baptism do so with an informed faith and genuine commitment. The signs, rites, and, crucially, the "why" of this sacrament are explained, preparing adults to accompany the child in their spiritual growth.
• Common modalities and duration in Colombia: The organization of these courses varies:
• In-person: Some parishes offer one- or two-night talks, usually two hours long. Others may offer a weekend morning or afternoon format.
• Virtual: With modernization, many parishes now offer virtual courses, often through videoconferencing platforms, at specific times. There are also online pre-baptismal courses offered by theological institutes that issue certificates valid for the Catholic Church, with lessons on various aspects of the sacrament.
• Duration: For infant baptisms (under 7 years old), preparation is usually one or two short sessions. For older children (8-13 years old) or adolescents (14-17 years old), the preparation is more extensive and resembles a catechism class that can last several months, often integrating preparation for First Communion and Confirmation.
• Registration and Attendance: It is crucial to register in advance and ensure the attendance of parents and godparents, as failure to comply with this requirement may result in the postponement of the baptism date.

The variability in formats and schedules for pre-baptismal courses requires proactive planning. It's advisable to check these details with the chosen parish as soon as possible, especially if the godparents live in another city or have complicated schedules.

It is important to emphasize that documentary preparation and pre-baptismal courses are not obstacles, but rather steps carefully laid out by the Church to ensure that this first step in a child's faith is firm, conscious, and meaningful for the entire family. They are, in fact, the foundation of a sacred commitment that will profoundly enrich the experience of Baptism.

Choosing Spirit Guides: The Crucial Role of Godparents

The choice of godparents is one of the most significant and emotional decisions in the preparation for Baptism. It is not simply a social honor, but rather the choice of those who, along with the parents, will commit to being guides and models in the child's Christian life. It is a sacred mission, a vocation of spiritual guidance.

Inviting someone to be a sponsor is an act of deep trust and recognition. It's recommended that this moment be special and conscious of its significance.

Responsibilities of Godparents: A Lifelong Commitment

The godfather's role isn't limited to the day of the ceremony; it's a commitment that extends throughout the godchild's life. Primary responsibilities include:

• Assist in the godchild's Christian initiation: This involves being present not only at Baptism, but also, to the extent possible, at other important moments in their faith life, such as First Communion and Confirmation.
• Ensure that the godchild leads a consistent Christian life: Together with the parents, help him or her understand and live the values of the Gospel.
• Be a spiritual role model and guide: Through your own life of faith, prayer, and charity, be a positive role model for your godchild.
• Praying for your godchild: Keeping your godchild in your prayers is a vital form of spiritual support.
• Accompany and advise: Be available to listen, offer advice based on Christian values, and support your godchild in important decisions, especially during adolescence and youth.
• Supporting Parents: Collaborate with parents in their child's Christian education, offering your support and perspective.
• Tradition of Care: Although not a strict canonical obligation, it has traditionally been considered that, in the absence of the parents, the godparents would assume a special role in the care of the godchild.

Sponsorship is, in essence, a vocation of long-term spiritual accompaniment, a true "lay ministry." It is a significant opportunity to positively impact the spiritual life of the godchild, far beyond material gifts or presence at social events.

The Planning Journey: Your Detailed Roadmap

With spiritual understanding and the selection of godparents firmly in place, it's time to dive into practical planning. Good organization is key to experiencing this process joyfully and without unnecessary stress. Planning a baptism is, in itself, an act of love that involves both logistical decisions and choices laden with symbolism and emotion.

Suggested Planning Timeline

To help navigate this process, a general timeline is proposed. It's important to remember that timing may vary depending on the parish and individual circumstances.

Table: Suggested Baptism Planning Timeline

The cost of a baptism can vary considerably depending on each family's choices. It's possible to organize a beautiful and meaningful celebration within different budgets. What matters is the love and faith shared.

I'm leaving you this link if you'd like to look at some budget estimates .

Invitations: Announcing the Good News with Style

Invitations are the first impression guests will have of the Baptism. They should be clear, contain all the necessary information, and reflect the spirit of the celebration.

• What to include: The child's full name, the names of the parents (and sometimes the godparents), the date, time, and exact location of the religious ceremony. If there will be a reception afterward, also include details of that (time and address). A small map or directions can be very helpful, especially if the location is not well-known.
• When to send: It's recommended to send them at least three weeks to a month in advance. If many guests are coming from out of town, consider sending them longer.
• Design: The design should match the style of the celebration, whether formal, informal, traditional, or modern. Many invitations can include a photo of the baby, making them even more tender and personal. They're a beautiful keepsake the child will look back on when they're older.

The Baptismal Attire: Dressing the Baby in Purity and Joy

The baby's outfit is one of the most visible and symbolic elements of Baptism.

• White Tradition: White is the traditional color for Baptism, as it represents the purity of the soul, innocence, and new life in Christ. Nude, ecru, or ivory colors can also be chosen. During the rite, the baby is often clothed in a white cape or cloth to symbolize Christ.
• Comfort above all: Although aesthetics are important, the baby's comfort is paramount. Choose soft, loose-fitting clothing that's appropriate for the weather. It's advisable to buy clothes close to the due date, as babies grow very quickly, and to have a spare set of clothes in case of an "accident."
• Etiquette for Parents, Godparents, and Guests: Baptism is a religious ceremony held in a sacred place. Therefore, all attendees are expected to dress with respect and decorum.
• For Church: Plunging necklines, very short dresses or skirts (a maximum of four fingers above the knee is a good guideline), bare backs, or bare shoulders should be avoided (a shawl or jacket may be worn to cover up inside the church).
• Event Time: Baptisms are usually held in the morning or early afternoon, so attire and makeup should be appropriate for a daytime event, generally simpler and less formal than for an evening wedding.
• Mother and Godmother: They are the prominent figures after the baby. Their attire should be elegant and comfortable, allowing them to hold the baby easily. A modest cocktail dress or an elegant ensemble are good options.
• Father and Godfather: A casual dark-toned suit or pants and jacket combo is appropriate.

Capturing Eternal Memories: The Photographer's Choice

Baptism day is filled with emotional and unforgettable moments. Hiring a professional photographer can be an excellent investment to preserve those memories forever. When choosing a photographer, it's a good idea to review their portfolio, especially if they have experience with religious events, and discuss with them the key moments you want to capture.

The Post-Ceremony Celebration: Sharing the Joy (Banquet/Reception)

After the solemnity of the religious ceremony, it's time to share the joy with family and friends.

Reception Options:

• Intimate at Home: For a more family-friendly and personal atmosphere, you can organize it at home with catering or a meal prepared by the family.
• Restaurant or Event Hall: Offers greater comfort in terms of space and service, although it may entail a higher cost.
• Toast at the Parish: Some parishes may offer a space for a simple toast after the ceremony.
• Location: Ideally, the venue should be close to the church to make it easy for guests to get around.

Typical Colombian Food to Celebrate:

• Colombian cuisine is rich, varied, and perfect for a family celebration. Planning a baptism in Colombia is enriched by these culinary traditions that reflect cultural identity and the importance of family and community.
• Snacks: Delicacies to start with, such as mini arepas with hogao or cheese, meat or chicken empanadas, yuca carimañolas, patacones with guacamole, or aborrajados (ripe plantain stuffed with cheese and a sandwich).
• Main Courses:
  • Ajiaco Santafereño: A typical Bogotá soup, with chicken, different types of potatoes, corn on the cob, capers, and cream, ideal for cold climates.
  • Sancocho: A hearty broth that varies by region (chicken, fish, three-phase), accompanied by rice and avocado.
  • Bandeja Paisa (adapted version): For an Antioquian touch, you can offer some components such as beans, rice, ground or shredded meat, pork rinds, chorizo, slices of ripe plantain and arepa.
  • Fried Fish: Especially if the celebration is in a warm climate or with a coastal influence, fried snapper or mojarra with coconut rice and patacones is an excellent option.
  • Tamales: Wrapped in banana leaves, tamales (from Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Santander) are a traditional and hearty option.
• Desserts: Cocadas, manjar blanco, rice pudding, cream dessert, figs with arequipe, or a cake decorated for the occasion.

Favors: Small Gestures of Gratitude with Great Meaning. Favors are a way to thank guests for their presence and share the joy of this special day. In Colombia, there is a lovely trend toward personalized favors with religious significance.

• Traditional and Religious Ideas:
  • Candied Almonds (Peladillas): A very old tradition, they are served in small bags or boxes and symbolize health, happiness, fertility, longevity, and wealth.
  • Small Religious Items: Denarii, rosary bracelets, small crosses, Guardian Angel or Holy Family medals, pins with religious images.
  • Decorative or Scented Candles: These can be personalized with the baby's name and the date of the baptism, sometimes with religious motifs.
  • Holy cards or bookmarks: With a prayer, the image of the baby and the baptism information.
  • Small Oratories or Plaques with Gifts of the Holy Spirit: More elaborate and lasting details.
• Personalized and Modern Ideas:
  • Boxes or bags with typical Colombian sweets.
  • Small Pots with Succulents or Plants: Symbolizing new life.
  • Personalized Keychains or Magnets: With the baby's name, the date, or a special design.
  • Handmade Soaps or Personalized Lip Balms.
  • Small Bottles of Wine or Homemade Jams.

The growing range of customization options for many baptismal elements, from invitations to favors, allows families to add a unique and personal touch to the celebration, while always keeping the focus on the event's profound religious significance.

Click this link to see more ideas for original and personalized reminders .

The Heart of the Journey: The Baptism Ceremony Step by Step

The long-awaited day arrives, the culminating moment when the child will be welcomed into the great family of the Church. Knowing the parts of the rite and its meaning allows everyone—parents, godparents, and guests—to experience the ceremony with greater depth and active participation. This knowledge transforms those present from mere spectators into conscious participants in a liturgical celebration rich in symbolism and grace.

Getting Ready for the Big Day

A few practical and spiritual tips can help everything run smoothly:

• Arrive on Time: It's essential to arrive at the church early enough. Some parishes request that a priest arrive about 30 minutes early to review the baptismal certificate information and sign the draft.
• Things to Have Ready: Have the items you might need ready: the baby's outfit, a change of clothes just in case, the baptismal candle (if not provided by the parish or godparents), the handkerchief to dry the baby's head, and any other personal items.
• Spiritual Disposition: Spend a few moments before the ceremony in prayer, asking God to pour out his grace upon the child and the entire family. Remember the "why" of this sacrament and open your heart to the action of the Holy Spirit.

The Rite of Baptism Explained Simply

The Catholic Baptism ceremony follows a liturgical structure that, although it may have slight variations, generally includes the following parts:

1. Rites of Welcome:

• Welcome and Dialogue: The priest or deacon welcomes the family at the door of the church or at the foot of the baptistery. He greets the parents, godparents, and the child.
• Ask for the Name: The celebrant asks the parents what name they have chosen for their child. This name is the one God will call them and the one they will be known by in the Christian community.
• Parents' Intention and Commitment: The celebrant asks the parents what they are asking of the Church for their child (answer: "Baptism") and if they are aware of the obligation they undertake to educate their child in the faith.
• Godparents' Commitment: Godparents are asked if they are willing to assist the parents in this task.
• Sign of the Forehead: The celebrant traces the sign of the cross on the child's forehead, as a sign of belonging to Christ. He then invites the parents and godparents to do the same. This gesture signifies that the entire life of the new Christian will be under the sign of Christ's redeeming love.

2. Liturgy of the Word:

• Biblical Readings: Passages from Sacred Scripture (Old Testament, Responsorial Psalm, New Testament Epistle, and Gospel) are proclaimed to illuminate the meaning of Baptism and Christian life.
• Homily: The celebrant explains the readings and the mystery of Baptism, addressing especially the parents and godparents regarding their responsibilities.
• Prayer of the Faithful: The gathered community raises its prayers for the child to be baptized, for his or her family, for the godparents, for all the children of the world, and for the needs of the Church and humanity.
• Prayer of Exorcism and Pre-Baptismal Anointing: Before the actual Baptism, the celebrant may perform a prayer of exorcism (asking for deliverance from the power of sin) and anoint the child's breast with the Oil of Catechumens. This oil symbolizes the strength of Christ the Savior to fight against evil.

3. Liturgy of the Sacrament (Baptismal Rite): This is the heart of the celebration.

• Blessing of the Water: The celebrant blesses the water to be used for Baptism, recalling God's great works in the history of salvation through water (creation, the flood, the crossing of the Red Sea, the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan).
• Renunciations and Profession of Faith: Parents and godparents, on behalf of the child, renounce Satan, his works, and his seductions. They then profess the faith of the Church in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and in the fundamental truths of the Creed. This act underscores that Baptism is received into the faith of the Church.
• Baptism: This is the culminating moment. The celebrant pours water three times over the child's head (or immerses him or her three times, according to custom and regulations), saying: "N., I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." By this act, the child is freed from sin, born into the new life of a child of God, and incorporated into Christ and his Church.
• Anointing with Holy Chrism: Immediately after Baptism, the celebrant anoints the crown of the child's head with Holy Chrism, a perfumed and consecrated oil. This anointing signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit and the consecration of the baptized person as priest, prophet, and king, sharing in Christ's mission.
• Imposition of the White Garment: The child is clothed in a white garment, a symbol of his or her new dignity, of having been clothed in Christ and of the purity of grace.
• Passing of the Light (Baptismal Candle): The parent or godparent lights a candle from the Paschal Candle (representing the Risen Christ) and passes it to the child. The celebrant encourages the parents and godparents to keep this light of faith alive in the child's heart.
• Rite of "Effetá" (if performed): As mentioned above, the celebrant touches the child's ears and mouth, asking that they be opened to hear the Word of God and proclaim the faith.

4. Concluding Rites:

• Our Father: All together pray the prayer that Jesus taught, recognizing themselves as children of the same Father.
• Presentation to the Virgin (in some communities): It is customary in many places, especially in Colombia, to present the newly baptized child before an image of the Virgin Mary, asking for her maternal protection.
• Final Blessing: The celebrant imparts a solemn blessing upon the mother, father, godparents, and all those present, sending them forth to live the joy of faith.

It is important to remember that Baptism is the first of the sacraments of Christian initiation, and its celebration is often connected with the Eucharist (if celebrated during Mass) and anticipates Confirmation. For older children or adults, preparation and celebration may integrate these sacraments more explicitly.

The Music of the Soul: Songs to Accompany the Celebration

Music has a special power to uplift the spirit and unite the congregation in prayer and praise. Selecting appropriate, familiar songs with a profound message can greatly enrich the Baptism experience.

In Colombia, there is a rich repertoire of liturgical music in Spanish. Some suggestions for songs for different moments of the rite, inspired by the lists provided and tradition, could include:

• Entrance Song: "I Am the Church (And So Are You)", "Together as Brothers", "They Come with Joy".
• Penitential Act (Lord, have mercy): Traditional responsorial chants.
• Hallelujah: Various Hallelujah melodies, or the specific "The right hand of the Lord has done wonders."
• Offertory: "A Child Approached You (Five Loaves)", "Knowing that You Will Come", "We Offer You, Our Father".
• Holy: Musical versions of "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord."
• Lamb of God: Traditional songs of the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world."
• Communion: "Fisher of Men", "Missionary Soul", "My Thought Is You, Lord".
• Exit / Song to the Virgin (if there is a presentation): "Santa María del Camino", "Today I have returned, Mother, to remember", "Let us give thanks to the Lord".

You can talk with the parish priest or the church's liturgy team to select the most appropriate songs and, if possible, arrange for a choir or musicians to liven up the celebration.

When we break down the ceremony, we discover that every gesture, every word, is not an empty formality, but a profound echo of the history of faith and a seed of hope planted in the child's heart. It is a divine language that speaks of love, redemption, and new life, destined to flourish throughout their entire life.

Baptism doesn't end with the church ceremony or the celebration at home; its meaning and significance begin on that day. In Colombia, traditions strengthen family and community ties. Godchild Day (June 29) reinforces the bond between godparent and godchild, symbolized in some regions with gifts such as pots of alfeñique (sweet almond). Baptismal gifts from godparents are often symbolic (robe, candle, shell, religious jewelry, books of faith). The ancient custom of "bolo" (throwing coins) evolves into candy or gifts. Baptism is the beginning of a journey of faith, where parents (primary educators) and godparents play supportive roles. Integrating the child into the parish community is vital. Baptism is a legacy of faith, hope, and love, marking the beginning of a Christian life.

If you want to learn more about the Colombian traditions that embrace the faith of baptism, you can click on this link.

We hope we've contributed to this spectacular journey. At Carolina Bijouterie, you'll always have support on this spectacular journey.

Appendices

A. Directory of Ecclesiastical Jurisdictions in Colombia

To facilitate the search for the appropriate parish, you can consult the directories of the main Archdioceses and Dioceses of Colombia through the portal of the Colombian Episcopal Conference or the websites of each jurisdiction.

• Episcopal Conference of Colombia: https://www.cec.org.co/jurisdicciones/
• Archdiocese of Bogotá: https://arquibogota.org.co/ (See parish or contact sections)
• Archdiocese of Medellín: https://arqmedellin.co/ (See parish or sacrament sections) (Links to other important dioceses may be added depending on the blog's target audience).

B. Glossary of Baptismal Terms

• Paternal and Maternal Grandparents: Names of the child's parents, often requested for parish records.
• Ablution: A form of baptism by pouring water over the head.
• Holy Water: Water blessed by a priest, used in Baptism to purify.
• Bolo: Tradition of godparents throwing coins or candy after the ceremony, as a symbol of abundance.
• Canons (c.): Norms or laws of the Catholic Church, contained in the Code of Canon Law (CIC).
• Catechumen: A person preparing to receive Baptism (especially adults). The Oil of Catechumens is the oil anointed before Baptism as a sign of strength.
• Paschal Candle: A large candle blessed at the Easter Vigil, representing the Risen Christ. The child's baptismal candle is lit from this candle.
• Chrism (Holy Chrism): Perfumed oil consecrated by the Bishop, used in Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders to anoint and signify the gift of the Holy Spirit and consecration to God.
• Pre-Baptismal Course: Mandatory talks or preparation meetings for parents and godparents on the meaning and responsibilities of Baptism.
• Solidarity Donation / Offering: Financial contribution requested in some parishes to cover the costs of the ceremony or to support the church.
• Effetá: Aramaic word meaning "Open." A rite in which the priest touches the ears and mouth of the baptized person, symbolizing openness to the Word of God and the profession of faith.
• Immersion: A form of baptism by completely immersing the candidate in water.
• Christian Initiation: The process by which a person is incorporated into the Church, which includes the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
• Baptism/Confirmation/Marriage Certificate: Official certificate issued by the parish where the sacrament was celebrated, which attests to the sacrament.
• Original Sin: The state of deprivation of original grace with which all human beings are born, as a consequence of the sin of their first parents. Baptism erases it.
• Peladillas: Candied almonds that are traditionally given at baptisms as a symbol of good wishes.
• Civil Birth Certificate: Legal document certifying a person's birth, issued by the National Civil Registry of Colombia. It is required for baptism.
• Signation: Act of tracing the sign of the cross on the child's forehead, performed by the celebrant, the parents and the godparents.
• Triple Munus (Priest, Prophet and King): The three functions of Christ in which the baptized person participates through the anointing with Holy Chrism.
• White Garment: White garment placed on the newly baptized person as a symbol of purity, new life, and having been clothed in Christ.

C. Prayers for the Family and the Baptized

• Parents' Prayer for their Child (before Baptism):
  "Good Father God, we thank you for the wonderful gift of our child [Child's Name]. Today we present him/her before you to receive holy baptism. Pour out upon him/her your Holy Spirit, that he/she may grow in wisdom, grace, and love. Help us to be an example of faith for him/her and guides on his/her journey to you. May your blessing always accompany him/her. Amen." (Inspired by the general intention of the parents.)
• Godparents' Prayer for their Godchild:
  "Lord Jesus, you called children to you, we entrust our godson [Child's Name] to you. We have joyfully accepted the mission of being his or her godparents. Give us the grace to accompany him or her always with our example, our prayers, and our love. Help him or her grow as a true child of God and a faithful member of your Church. May your light illuminate his or her life and your love sustain him or her at all times. Amen." (Inspired by the role of godparents.)
• Prayer of Thanksgiving after Baptism (to be prayed as a family):
  "Heavenly Father, we thank you with hearts full of joy for the Baptism of our child [Child's Name]. Thank you for giving him/her new birth to a life of grace and for incorporating him/her into your Holy Church. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit he/she has received. Help us to live as a true Christian family, bearing witness to your love and raising [Child's Name] in the faith we have professed today. May the Virgin Mary, our Mother, intercede for us and accompany us on this journey. Amen."
• Prayer to the Holy Family (for the home):
  "Jesus, Mary and Joseph, in you we contemplate the splendor of true love, to you, trusting, we turn. Holy Family of Nazareth, make our families also a place of communion and a cenacle of prayer, authentic schools of the Gospel and little domestic churches. Holy Family of Nazareth, may there never again be episodes of violence, isolation and division in families; may anyone who has been hurt or scandalized be soon comforted and healed. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, hear and accept our plea. Amen."