to be considered as witnesses of his Baptism, and, consequently, contract no spiritual relationship.
23. Can the Baptism of water never be supplied?
When it is impossible to have it, it may be supplied by the Baptism of desire or by the Baptism of blood.
24. What is the Baptism of desire?
An earnest wish and a determined will to receive Baptism, or to do all that God has ordained for our salvation, accompanied with a perfect contrition, or a pure love of God.
'Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God' (1 John iv. 7).
25. What is the Baptism of blood?
Martyrdom for the sake of Christ.
'He that shall lose his life for me shall find it' (Matt. x. 39).
Application. Never forget what you owe to God for the inestimable grace of Baptism; and often, if possible every Sunday, renew your Baptismal Vows.
CONFIRMATION.
1. What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is a Sacrament in which, through the Bishop's laying on of hands, unction, and prayer, those already baptized are strengthened by the Holy Ghost, in order that they may steadfastly profess their faith, and faithfully live up to it.
2. Who teaches us that the Sacrament of Confirmation was instituted by Christ?
The infallible Catholic Church, in accordance with the Holy Scripture,1 with the doctrine of the holy Fathers,2 and with the practice of the most ancient times.3
The Holy Scripture reckons the doctrine of Confirmation, as well as that of Baptism and Penance, amongst the fundamental truths of Christianity (Hebr. vi. 1, 2). It testifies that Christ promised the Holy Ghost to the faithful, and that the Apostles imparted Him by prayer and imposition of hands.
