Alternative baptismal vows in place of creed
One of our sons made his first communion last year. My wife and I were upset when the children, along with the congregation, were asked to renew our baptismal vows, and the vows used were not those of the Catholic Church. Instead, we were asked a series of questions to respond to that addressed our obligation to end world hunger and bring about world peace. I think there was also something about protecting the environment, too. Another son of ours is making his first communion this year, and we anticipate a repeat. Is this acceptable? How much flexibility is allowed with the creed/baptismal vows?
QUESTION from Robert on March 21, 2004
ANSWER by Mr. Jacob L. Slavek on March 27, 2004
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Dear Robert, The ritual for Baptism allows that another formula be used for the baptismal promises, but the ones that you have mentioned are not appropriate since they are not a profession of the Catholic faith. World peace, the environment and ending world hunger are all important issues that Catholics are obliged to care for, but not in place of the Catholic profession at baptism. I find it extremely upsetting that your parish leaders and priest would allow this, it is terribly insulting to those martyrs who have died for the Catholic faith and to all others who have worked for it and believe in it. Shame on them. It's so sad that many Catholics don't realize what a privilege it is to recite the Creed every week and make these promises. Mr. Slavek |