Hi Janice,
Here is my two cents on this question:
They can't.
Nevertheless, Our Blessed Lord makes
it crystal clear how Baptism is necessary
for salvation. Because all parents
want what is good for their children,
they make that choice for their children,
and speak for the children, along
with their godparents, at the baptismal
font.
Later, the child makes that choice
on their own at their Confirmation.
I would also direct you to the Oral
Tradition of the Church (2 Thessalonians
2:15) and
St. Hippolytus of Rome,
a discipline of St. John. (c. 215 A.D.)
"Baptize first
the children; and if they can speak
for themselves, let them do so. Otherwise,
let their parents or other relatives
speak for them."
St. Hippolytus of Rome (c.
215 A.D.) — The Apostolic
Tradition 21
(View more quotes onBibleBeltCatholics.com)
Though Catholic teachings are not necessarily Bible-based here are some Scripture verses that back
up the Catholic position on infant baptism.
I hope this helps,
Mike
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