Sections 209 through 214 give an explanation of the main elements of the baptism portion of the initiation rites. A summary first:
209. The celebration of baptism has as its center and high point the baptismal washing and the invocation of the Holy Trinity. Beforehand there are rites that have an inherent relationship to the baptismal washing: first, the blessing of the water, then the renunciation of sin by the elect, and their profession of faith. Following the baptismal washing, the effects received through the sacrament are given expression in the explanatory rites: The anointing with chrism (when confirmation does not immediately follow baptism), the clothing with a white garment, and the presentation of a lighted candle.
As with all other sacraments, there are associated rites to go with the apex. Why are they important? I suppose if our catechesis were impeccable, there would be no need. In emergency situations, as we read often in the Pastoral Care rites, the important thing is the essential of the sacrament. At the Easter Vigil, however, these associated rituals have great value: they recount the story for the faith community. They also reinforce, as the rite attests, certain interior associations the newly baptized have already experienced. What are the effects of baptism? An inner strengthening, a renewal in one’s exterior life, and Christ’s light of faith: all represented in anointing, white clothing, and a lit candle.