Baptism questions for a convert

[birdsall1153]

I’m converting to the faith and hope to be baptized at Easter.
I have a couple of technical questions about what exactly happens at the baptism.

1. I’ll have to tell the priest my name, right? Do I give just my first name, my first and middle names, or do I include my last name too?
2. What should I wear? I’ve been assuming that I should dress as I normally do for Mass.
3. After I am baptized, do I make my first confession and then receive first communion that same day?

Thank you!

 

[marty1818]

1. The priest should let you know what he wants. It’ll probably be your first only or first and middle.
2. Something nice. If you already dress nice for mass then you are set.
3. Baptism completely wipes away all you sins so there is no need to confess before receive your first communion. If you are entering the Church at Easter, you will be baptized in the middle of the mass and then can receive communion when it is time at the same mass.

 

[Barbkw]

At our parish we do full immersions. Women wear blouses usually (to avoid the wet T-shirt “look” at Mass). Quickly after leaving the water, they are handed a white robe to cover up in.

 

[puzzleannie]

I’m converting to the faith and hope to be baptized at Easter.
I have a couple of technical questions about what exactly happens at the baptism.

1. I’ll have to tell the priest my name, right? Do I give just my first name, my first and middle names, or do I include my last name too?
2. What should I wear? I’ve been assuming that I should dress as I normally do for Mass.
3. After I am baptized, do I make my first confession and then receive first communion that same day?

Thank you!

these questions should be answered in your preparation during Lent.

During baptism you will probably be wearing a nametag, or your sponsor will say your first and middle name if you want them both included. You can say just your first name that is fine also

Garb depends on whether or not you will be immersed for baptism. Ask the RCIA director. If yes then you will wear something that can get wet, like nylon gym shorts and tank top, sandals, and be given a robe of some type to wear over it for modesty, and have your sponsor bring a large towel. You will have a chance afterward to change into your “church” dress, which does not have to be all white but may include some white, whatever is proper for church attendance for your age and gender. You may be given a symbolic white garment by your sponsor after baptism and before confirmation.

it is essential that you keep attending with your class after Easter because Mystagogy, study of the mysteries, the reflection on what has just happened to you is the most important part of RCIA. Those who skip it seldom continue firm in the Catholic faith in years to come because they are not supported after entering the Church. During this time you will be prepared for your first confession so you can go when the need arises.

You will be confirmed right after baptism (or after you change if you have been immersed) and receive first communion during this same Mass. This all happens at the Easter Vigil the evening of Holy Saturday, April 7 this year.