ISSUE: What does the Catholic Church require for valid baptism? RESPONSE: For valid baptism to occur, the Catholic Church requires proper matter, form and intention. The proper matter is “true and natural water.” The proper form requires the minister to pour, completely immerse in, or sprinkle water upon the candidate, while saying the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” The minister of baptism must intend to baptize as the Church intends.[1] DISCUSSION: Scripture affirms the necessity of using water and the Trinitarian Formula for baptism (cf. Ez. … Continue reading →