The Catholic Church understands Baptism as the first and basic Sacrament of Christian Initiation. But it is only the first step, and must be followed by first reception of the Eucharist and Confirmation in order for a young person to be a fully initiated Catholic Christian.

When parents present their children for Baptism, they are making a serious commitment to raise their children in the faith by bringing them to Sunday Mass and entering them in the religious education program when they reach school age.

The Sacrament of Baptism also removes the effects of original sin - the sin of Adam, or the flawed human condition that we are all born with. The Grace of Baptism frees us from this condition, and makes us open to God's love and blessings in our lives.