text: No, you really misunderstand Baptism not only at a deep level but at a superficial level as well.
  
  Anyone who says "Baptism is merely an outward sign" misunderstands Baptism. 
  
  Anyone who says "Baptism is merely an outward sign"..doesn't understand that Baptism "is necessary for salvation" (CCC)
  
  Mere outward signs have no standing in such weighty matters.
  
  It's really troubling.
  
  CCC: "Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua),4 and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.""