Baptism Baseball

To review the rite and effects of the Sacrament of Baptism and the definitions of chrism, oil of catechumens, and stewardship

The children should be able to identify the rite and effects of the Sacrament of Baptism and define chrism, oil of catechumens, and stewardship.

List of questions about Baptism, for example:

What is the main sign of Baptism? (water)

Describe one way that people are baptized. (immersion in water)

Is there another way to baptize? (water is poured over a person's head)

What does the celebrant say when baptizing? (I baptize you . . .)

Who does the celebrant call on? (Holy Trinity)

What does the person being baptized put on? (white garment)

What does the garment symbolize? (new creation, being clothed in Christ)

A child being baptized is anointed with two oils. True or False. (True)

Name one of the oils. (oil of catechumens)

Where is that oil placed? (chest)

What is the other oil? (chrism)

Where does the celebrant put this oil? (top of head)

What is oil a symbol of? (strength and healing)

• Tell the children that they are going to play a special kind of baseball game called Baptism Baseball.
• Divide the group into two teams.
• Invite the children to decide on appropriate names for their teams.
• Ask a representative from each team to come forward and write the name of his or her team on the board.
• Use pieces of paper for the bases, and place them on the floor to form a baseball diamond.
• Show the children first, second, and third bases, and home plate.
• Determine which team is up to bat first.
• Explain that you will be the pitcher, and that the pitch will be a question regarding Baptism.
• If the correct answer is given, the team member advances to first base. If the incorrect answer is given, the team member is out and returns to his or her seat. Base stealing is not allowed.
• When a team member crosses home plate, the team is credited with a run.

Art/Space Smart, People Smart

You will need to arrange the room to allow the children to move from base to base.

As both pitcher and referee, it is up to you to decide if there will be three outs, or if there will be only one or two outs to allow the opposing team an opportunity to play.

Tailor questions to the group.

If there is a child who struggles with the material, allow the team to be consulted before an answer is given.