Prominent Catholic figures in Ireland have united in strong opposition to recent remarks made by the former president regarding infant baptism. The controversial assertion that baptism infringes on children’s rights has been unequivocally refuted by members of the Church, who emphasize that baptism is a sacred sacrament deeply embedded in the spiritual and cultural fabric of Catholic communities. Church leaders highlighted that baptism is not merely a ritual but a foundational step in a child’s inclusion into the faith and community.

In response, several bishops and theologians issued statements underscoring the importance of parental rights and religious freedom. They also addressed the misconception that baptism could be considered a human rights violation, arguing that such claims overlook the voluntary nature of religious…