Baptism
Baptism is a ritual cleansing. It was done before Jesus as a Jewish tradition and was re-named by the early Christians. OCCA recognizes the Baptism of other Christian churches in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. To join the Orthodox-Catholic Church of America one does not have to be re-baptized. Baptism is an important sacrament in that it is the first Sacrament a Christian receives from the Church. It marks one as belonging to Christ as it washes away the sins of the one who receives it. God-parents normally sponsor the newly-baptized and help guide them in their lives. This washing away of sin marks the beginning of what Orthodox writers call "theosis" literally becoming like God. This is the process of growing in union with God who desires for us a union far deeper than that of Creator and creature. It is a life long journey to find our rightful place in the heart of the triune God.