Choose a topic from Part 3a:

71. Preparation for Baptism

1. Instruction is to precede baptism, for our Lord said(Matt. 28:19): "Going therefore, teach ye all nations,baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and ofthe Holy Ghost." Infants who are incapable of receivingpersonal instruction, are baptized in the faith of theChurch. Yet the sponsor for an infant promises to use his bestefforts to see that the child will be duly instructed.

2. Exorcism, which is the casting out of evil spirits,should precede baptism. For the devil is the enemy of man'ssalvation, and he has a certain power over man in the fact that manis subject to sin.

3. The exorcism casts out demons lest they impede thesalvation of the person baptized. In the ritual employed by theChurch for solemn baptism, this exorcism is prescribed.

4. It is the work of priests to instruct and exorcisethose preparing for baptism, and afterwards to baptize them.

"Let no one wear a mask, otherwise he will do ill; and if he has one, let him burn it."
St Philip Neri

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"Obedience is the true holocaust which we sacrifice to God on the altar of our hearts."
St Philip Neri

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"To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is the best and most perfect wisdom. Wherefore, if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate. All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself. "
Thomas á Kempis

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