Consider the different effects produced in the soul by the Sacrament of Baptism. There is an infusion of sanctifying grace into the soul; this is a conveyance of the perfect life in God, which involves the destruction of all the obstacles to that life. The first effect, therefore, is the remission of Original Sin, then the remission of all actual sins, mortal and venial, that may have been committed, and the destruction of all the remnants of sin, such as abide in the soul after forgiveness in the Sacrament of Penance, and have to be obliterated by sufferings in this world or in purgatory. Another effect of the infusion of sanctifying grace in Baptism is the purifying and beautifying of the soul; and in this are included the habits or facilities for exercising Faith, Hope, Charity, the Cardinal Virtues, and the gifts of the Holy Ghost. There are also special sacramental graces, which are the equipment of the soul for its new condition and for the new obligations that are imposed on it. A further effect is the permanent character or seal impressed on the soul, marking it as having become a child of God, and as having dedicated itself to His service; this quality is never lost, and abides eternally for the glorification or the greater disgrace of the soul. Baptism is also the admission to the full privileges of membership in Christ's kingdom on earth, and to participation in all the good works and merits of the whole Church. Be grateful to God for every one of these favours; take care that you do not forfeit them by being unfaithful to the obligations that accompany the privileges.
