Baptism in utero?

[Ancient1]

A relation of mine is a young woman having a pregnancy with medical complications that could endanger the child, possibly even the mother. She is on total bed rest and it will be almost 2 months before the baby is “viable” and could survive if premature labor begins. We were told that her priest “baptized the baby”.

This baby is inside the womb! First, I don’t see how a proper baptism (water running over the forehead) could be performed in that circumstance. Second, is there any stipulation about the sacrament of baptism only being administered to “born” human beings?

Perhaps this priest gave a blessing that the woman interpreted as baptism, but they seemed emphatic the baby is baptized so the priest seemingly gave that affirmation.

 

[1ke]

You are correct, it is not possible to baptize a baby in utero. Yes, the water must touch the one being baptized.

Technically a partially born baby could be baptized, or if the womb was opend during surgery Highly improbable but theoretically possible.

It doesn’t have to do with being born or not born. It has to do with physically pouring water on the baby.

 

[105lynne]

Could that possibly be considered baptism of desire?

 

[kmuestwin]

Could that possibly be considered baptism of desire?

No. A batism of Is when someone wants a baptism but is unable to recieve one. A baby in utero is unable to desire because it’s conscience hasn’t been formed enough for them to want it. That’s why the Godparent is there to answer for the child.

 

[1ke]

Could that possibly be considered baptism of desire?

No.