The baptismal formula is a set of words that are spoken during the Christian sacrament of baptism. In most Christian traditions, the formula consists of the phrase "I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." This formula is based on the words of Jesus in the New Testament, who commanded his followers to baptize in this manner (Matthew 28:19).
The purpose of the baptismal formula is to invoke the presence and power of the triune God β Father, Son, and Holy Spirit β during the act of baptism. Through the formula, the person being baptized is symbolically washed clean of sin and made a part of the body of Christ. The formula also serves as a declaration of faith in the triune God, as the person being baptized is confessing their belief in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The baptismal formula has a long history in the Christian church. In the early church, the formula was spoken in the language of the person being baptized, as it was believed that the words had power in and of themselves. As the church spread throughout the world, the formula was translated into various languages. Today, the formula is spoken in many different languages around the world, including English, Spanish, French, and many more.
In some Christian traditions, the baptismal formula is accompanied by other rituals or actions. For example, in some churches, the person being baptized may be fully immersed in water, while in others they may be sprinkled with water. Some churches also use other symbols, such as anointing with oil, as part of the baptismal rite.
Despite these variations, the baptismal formula remains a central element of Christian baptism. It serves as a powerful reminder of the love and grace of God, and of the commitment that believers make to follow Jesus and be part of his body, the church.