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Baptism: GCSE Religious Studies Definition

Angela Yates

Written by: Angela Yates

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

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Contents

  1. 1. What is baptism?
  2. 2.  Religious Studies Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

What is baptism?

In GCSE Religious Studies, baptism is a Christian sacrament or ritual of initiation that symbolises purification, the washing away of sin, and entry into the Christian faith. Baptism follows the example of Jesus, who was baptised by John the Baptist, and is seen as a sign of commitment to God and the Christian community.

Almost all Christian churches practise baptism. Some Christians see baptism as a sacrament; others view it as an important ceremony. A few Christian Churches do not perform baptism, such as the Quakers and the Salvation Army. In infant baptism, common in Catholic and Anglican traditions, water is sprinkled on a baby’s head, and godparents make promises on their behalf. In believers' baptism, practised by Baptists and Pentecostals, a person is fully immersed in water as a public declaration of their faith.

 Religious Studies Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Learn about the practice and significance of baptism in Christianity by using our detailed GCSE revision notes

The Sacraments - GCSE AQA revision notes

The Sacraments - GCSE Edexcel revision notes

Explore the GCSE Religious Studies Revision Notes



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Author
Reviewer
Angela Yates

Author: Angela Yates

Expertise: Religious Studies

Angela graduated with a first-class degree in Theology and Religious Studies from the University of Manchester. After completing a PGCE and CCRS, she taught RE for around fifteen years before becoming a full-time writer and educational content creator. Angela is passionate about creating Religious Education resources to enable students to achieve their full potential.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.

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