What are the essential elements of a valid baptism?

• A. Proper matter (water), proper form (the baptismal invocation), valid minister (bishop, priest, or deacon), and the intent to baptize.
• B. The presence of two witnesses.
• C. The civil authority authorization is essential.
• D. Only water and intent; no matter or form required.

Answer: (A)

In canon law, a baptism is valid only when four elements are present: the proper matter, the proper form, a valid minister, and the intention to baptize. Water functions as the matter; the baptismal formula—using the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit—constitutes the form; the minister must be a baptized and ordained minister capable of performing the sacrament (typically a bishop, priest, or deacon); and the person administering the rite must intend to accomplish what the Church intends in baptism. If any one of these elements is missing, the baptism is not valid.

That is why the option listing water, the baptismal formula, a valid minister, and the intention to baptize is correct. The other choices fall short because they omit essential elements: two witnesses are not required for validity, civil authorization is not essential, and having only water and intent neglects the required form and/or the proper minister.