The Importance of Preserving Baptismal Records: A Historical and Sacramental Perspective
When it comes to the sacrament of Baptism, the Catholic Church places great importance on the accurate recording and preservation of baptismal records. The Prefect and Secretary of the Dicastery for Legislative Texts, Archbishop Filippo Iannone and Bishop Juan Ignacio Arrieta, recently signed an explanatory note outlining the reasons behind the prohibition against deleting entries from parish registers that document the administration of the sacrament of Baptism.
According to the Church, a baptismal entry is not just a simple record, but a “historical fact” from which all other sacraments derive. This foundational historical fact must be accurately recorded to ensure the validity of subsequent sacraments. While individuals are free to renounce their membership in the Church, their baptismal record cannot be erased.
Objective Verification of a Fact
The recent clarification emphasizes that Canon Law does not permit the modification or deletion of entries in the Baptismal Register, except in cases of transcription errors. The purpose of the register is to provide certainty regarding sacramental actions and events historically carried out by the Church. It serves as an objective verification of these important events.
Baptism as the Basis of Other Sacraments
Baptism is considered the foundational sacrament from which all others, such as Confirmation, Holy Orders, and Matrimony, derive. Therefore, maintaining accurate baptismal records is crucial for establishing the validity of these sacraments. The preservation of these records is essential for pastoral, administrative, theological, and legal reasons.
No Infringement on Personal Freedom
While the Church mandates the registration and certification of sacramental acts, this does not infringe on an individual’s freedom to choose their religious affiliation. The Baptismal Register does not certify membership in the Church but records an ecclesial historical fact. Individuals are free to leave the Church by their own choice, but their baptismal record remains intact.
The Act of Defection
If someone decides to leave the Church, they may request to have their expression of will recorded in the Baptismal Register. This formal act of defection does not involve deleting existing data but acknowledges the individual’s decision to leave the Church.
One Cannot Be Baptized Twice
The note reaffirms that a person who has already been baptized cannot be baptized again. While there are provisions for conditional baptism in cases of doubt, the sacrament of Baptism is considered a one-time event that cannot be repeated.
Witnesses to the Sacrament
Having witnesses present at the celebration of Baptism is essential for ensuring the certainty of the event. Witnesses play a supportive role in verifying the sacrament but cannot replace the importance of accurate record-keeping.
Preserving baptismal records is not just a matter of administrative practice; it is a testament to the historical and sacramental significance of the sacrament of Baptism. By upholding the integrity of these records, the Church ensures the validity and continuity of its sacramental life.
