Image of Sacrament of Babtism By Edward Matulanya   Discover the sacrament of Babtism as the gateway to life of Spirit. 1. Meaning of Baptism Baptism is the first sacrament and the “gateway to life in the Spirit” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1994, §1213). It incorporates the baptized into Christ and the Church. The word baptizein means “to immerse.” 2. Biblical Foundations of Sacrament of Babtism  Old Testament fore shadowings: Creation and Spirit over waters (Gen 1:2). The Flood (Gen 6–9). Crossing the Red Sea (Ex 14). Crossing the Jordan (Josh 3). New Testament foundations: John the Baptist’s ministry (Mk 1:4). Baptism of Jesus (Mt 3:13–17). The Great Commission (Mt 28:19). Pentecost preaching (Acts 2:38). Paul: Baptism unites with Christ’s death and resurrection (Rom 6:3–4; Col 2:12). 3. Early Church Practice of Sacrament of Babtism 1st century: Immediate baptism after conversion (Acts 8:36–38; Acts 16:31–33). 2nd century: Justin Martyr describes baptism as new birth ...