Text from INITIATION SERVICES GS1152C. copyright © 1997 the Central Board of Finance of the Church of England.
HOLY BAPTISM
SERVICE OUTLINE
indicates alternative position allowed and shown in Service Outline in italics.
* indicates alternative texts in appendices
PREPARATION
GREETING
[THANKSGIVING PRAYER FOR A CHILD (APPENDIX 1)]
INTRODUCTION *
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDlDATES
COLLECT *
LITURGY OF THE WORD
READINGS AND PSALM
GOSPEL READING
SERMON
LITURGY OF BAPTISM
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES
DECISION
SIGNING WITH THE CROSS
PRAYER OVER THE WATER *
PROFESSION OF FAITH *
BAPTISM
COMMISSION
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION *
WELCOME AND PEACE *
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION *
LORD’S PRAYER—IF NO EUCHARIST
[LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
PREPARATION OF THE TABLE
TAKING OF THE BREAD AND WINE
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
LORD’S PRAYER
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
GIVING OF THE BREAD AND WINE
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION *]
SENDING OUT
BLESSING *
GIVING OF A LIGHTED CANDLE
DISMISSAL
NOTES
Holy Baptism is normally administered by the parish priest in the course of public worship on Sunday ‘when the most number of people come together’ (Canon B21).
1. Minister of Baptism
Where rubrics speak of ‘the president’, this indicates the parish priest or other minister authorized to administer Holy Baptism. When the bishop is present he normally presides over the whole service. Parts of the service not assigned to the president may be delegated to others.
2. Ordering of the service
Pages 32–34 show how Baptism is to be administered at the Eucharist, Morning or Evening Prayer, or A Service of the Word. The structure of the service, however, enables it to be used as a significant celebration on its own and there may be occasions where such a celebration of Holy Baptism forms a main Sunday act of worship.
3. Thanksgiving for a child
This option (see Appendix 1) may be used where it is appropriate to express thanksgiving for a child to be baptized later in the service; this may be inserted as part of the Preparation. This is not intended to preclude the use of a separate service of Thanksgiving for the Birth of a Child.
4. Presentation of the candidates
The Presentation may follow the Introduction where circumstances make this appropriate.
5. Collect, readings and other variable texts
The collect and readings for the Sunday should normally be used, especially on Sundays between the First Sunday of Advent and the Feast of the Presentation of Christ, and between the First Sunday in Lent and Trinity Sunday. The collects provided in the rite and its appendices may, however, be substituted on Sundays between the Presentation of Christ and the beginning of Lent and between Trinity Sunday and the beginning of Advent even when the normal Sunday readings are used. The collects and readings provided in the service or in its appendices are for use on occasions when baptism is the predominant element in the service. The basic form of the service remains constant. Within this structure seasonal material may also be used (see appendices 1, 2, 3 and 4). These are linked to occasions in the Christian year when their use might be particularly appropriate.
6. Godparents and sponsors
The term ‘godparent’ is used for those asked to present children for baptism and to continue to support them. The term ‘sponsor’ is used for those who agree to support in the journey of faith candidates (of any age) for baptism, confirmation or affirmation of baptismal faith. It is not necessary that a candidate have the same person as godparent and sponsor. When children who are old enough to speak are baptized, such children, at the discretion of the parish priest, also answer the questions at the Decision with parents and godparents.
7. Hymns and silence
If occasion requires, hymns may be sung and silence may be kept at points other than those which are indicated.
8. Corporate responses
When members of a family are baptized at the same time, the questions at the Decision may be answered in the form ‘We reject...’.
9. Profession of faith
The whole congregation joins in the Apostles’ Creed at the Profession of Faith or makes the responses in the alternative Profession of Faith (Appendix 5).
10. Use of oil
Where it has been agreed that oil will be used, pure olive oil, reflecting the practice of athletes preparing for a contest, may be used for the signing with the cross. Oil mixed with fragrant spices (traditionally called Chrism), expressing the blessings of the messianic era and the richness of the Holy Spirit, may be used to accompany the prayer after the Baptism. It is appropriate that the oil should have been consecrated by the bishop.
11. Signing with the cross
At the Signing with the cross, after the president or other minister has made the sign using the words provided, parents, godparents and sponsors may also be invited to make the sign of the cross. It is sufficient if the people join in and say their part once only, when all the candidates have been signed. The possibility of signing with the cross at the prayer after the baptism is provided for, but if this is done it should be accompanied by the text provided at that point in the rite, not the text provided for the Signing with the Cross after the Decision. If signing takes place after the Baptism, it must follow the administration of water as a separate action.
12. Administration of water
A threefold administration of water (whether by dipping or pouring) is a very ancient practice of the Church and is commended as testifying to the faith of the Trinity in which candidates are baptized. Nevertheless, a single administration is also lawful and valid. The use of a substantial amount of water is desirable; water must at least flow on the skin of the candidate. The president may delegate the act of baptism to another lawful minister.
13. Conditional baptism
If it is not certain whether a person has already been baptized with water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, then the usual service of baptism is used, but the form of words at the baptism shall be:
N., if you have not already been baptized, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
14. Clothing
Provision is made for clothing after the baptism. This may be a practical necessity where dipping is the mode of baptism employed; the text provided draws on ancient tradition, linking practical necessity and scriptural imagery.
15. Prayers of Intercession
General intercession should normally be part of the service. Such prayers draw the newly baptized into the praying church of which they are now a part. It may be appropriate for the newly-baptized to introduce sections of these prayers. Prayers in responsive form are provided; one of the forms of prayer in Appendices 2 and 3 may be used. The Prayers may be used after the Welcome and Peace.
16. Giving of a Lighted Candle
The Paschal candle or another large candle is made ready so that it may be lit at the Decision. Individual candles may be lit from it and given to candidates as part of the sending out. The giving of lighted candles may take place at an earlier stage in the service, after the administration of baptism.
HOLY BAPTISM
PREPARATION
At the entry of the ministers a hymn may be sung.
GREETING
The president says
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit
be with you all
and also with you.
Words of welcome or introduction may be said.
The president may use the prayer of thanksgiving in Appendix 1.
The president uses these or other words
(seasonal forms are provided in Appendix 2)
Our Lord Jesus Christ has told us
that to enter the kingdom of heaven
we must be born again of water and the Spirit,
and has given us baptism as the sign and seal of this new birth.
Here we are washed by the Holy Spirit and made clean.
Here we are clothed with Christ,
dying to sin that we may live his risen life.
As children of God, we have a new dignity
and God calls us to fullness of life.
Gloria in Excelsis may be used.
COLLECT
The president introduces a period of silent prayer with the words ‘let us pray’ or a more specific bidding
Either the collect of the day, or this collect is said
(seasonal forms are provided in Appendix 2)
Heavenly Father,
by the power of your Holy Spirit
you give to your faithful people new life in the water of baptism.
Guide and strengthen us by the same Spirit,
that we who are born again may serve you in faith and love,
and grow into the full stature of your Son, Jesus Christ,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
now and for ever. Amen.
LITURGY OF THE WORD
READINGS
The readings of the day are normally used on Sundays and principal festivals. For other occasions a Table of Readings is provided in Appendix 4.
Either one or two readings from scripture precede the Gospel Reading.
At the end of each the reader may say:
This is the word of the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
The psalm or canticle follows the first reading; other hymns and songs may be used between the readings.
GOSPEL READING
An acclamation may herald the gospel reading.
When the gospel is announced the reader says
Hear the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to N.
Glory to you, O Lord.
At the end:
This is the gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, O Christ.
SERMON
LITURGY OF BAPTISM
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES
The candidates are presented to the congregation. Where appropriate, they are presented by their godparents or sponsors.
The president asks those candidates for baptism who are able to answer for themselves
Do you wish to be baptized?
I do.
Testimony by the candidate(s) may follow.
The president addresses the whole congregation
Faith is the gift of God to his people.
In baptism the Lord is adding to our number those whom he is calling.
People of God, will you welcome these children/candidates and uphold them in their
new life in Christ?
With the help of God, we will.
At the baptism of children, the president then says to the parents and godparents
Parents and godparents, the Church receives these children with joy. Today we are trusting God for their growth in faith. Will you pray for them, draw them by your example into the community of faith and walk with them in the way of Christ?
With the help of God, we will.
In baptism these children begin their journey in faith. You speak for them today. Will you care for them, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ’s church?
With the help of God, we will.
DECISION
A large candle may be lit. The president addresses the candidates directly, or through their parents, godparents and sponsors.
In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light.
To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him.
Therefore I ask:
Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?
I reject them.
Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?
I renounce them.
Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?
I repent of them.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
I turn to Christ.
Do you submit to Christ as Lord?
I submit to Christ.
Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?
I come to Christ.
SIGNING WITH THE CROSS
The president or another minister makes the sign of the cross on the forehead of each candidate, saying
Christ claims you for his own.
Receive the sign of his cross.
The president may invite parents, godparents and sponsors to sign the candidates with the cross. When all the candidates have been signed, the president says
Do not be ashamed to confess the faith of Christ crucified.
Fight valiantly as a disciple of Christ
against sin, the world and the devil,
and remain faithful to Christ to the end of your life.
May almighty God deliver you from the powers of darkness,
restore in you the image of his glory,
and lead you in the light and obedience of Christ. Amen.
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
The ministers and candidates gather at the baptismal font. A canticle, psalm, hymn or litany may be used (texts are suggested in appendices 5 and 6).
The president stands before the water of baptism and says
(Optional seasonal and responsive forms are provided in appendices 2 and 3)
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
We thank you, almighty God, for the gift of water
to sustain, refresh and cleanse all life.
Over water the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation.
Through water you led the children of Israel
from slavery in Egypt to freedom in the promised land.
In water your Son Jesus received the baptism of John
and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ,
to lead us from the death of sin to newness of life.
We thank you, Father, for the water of baptism.
In it we are buried with Christ in his death.
By it we share in his resurrection.
Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.
Therefore, in joyful obedience to your Son,
we baptize into his fellowship those who come to him in faith.
Now sanctify this water that, by the power of your Holy Spirit,
they may be cleansed from sin and born again.
Renewed in your image, may they walk by the light of faith
and continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Lord;
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be all honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
PROFESSION OF FAITH
The president addresses the congregation:
Brothers and sisters, I ask you to profess
together with these candidates
the faith of the Church.
Do you believe and trust in God the Father?
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe and trust in his Son Jesus Christ?
I believe in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord.
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again;
he ascended into heaven;
he is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and he will come again to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.
Where there are strong pastoral reasons the alternative profession of faith in Appendix 7 may be used.
BAPTISM
If the candidate(s) can answer for themselves, the president may say to each one
N.
, is this your faith?Each candidate answers in their own words, or:
This is my faith.
The president or another minister dips each candidate in water, or pours water on them, saying
N.
, I baptize youIf the newly baptized are clothed with a white robe, a hymn or song may be used, and then a minister may say:
You have been clothed with Christ.
As many as are baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
If those who have been baptized were not signed with the cross immediately after the Decision, the president signs each one now.
The president says
May God, who has received you by baptism into his Church,
pour upon you the riches of his grace,
that within the company of Christ’s pilgrim people
you may daily be renewed by his anointing Spirit,
and come to the inheritance of the saints in glory. Amen.
The president and those who have been baptized may return from the font.
COMMISSION
Either
Where the newly baptized are unable to answer for themselves, a minister addresses the congregation, parents and godparents.
We have brought these children to baptism knowing that Jesus died and rose again for them and trusting in the promise that God hears and answers prayer. We have prayed that in Jesus Christ they will know the forgiveness of their sins and the new life of the Spirit.
As they grow up, they will need the help and encouragement of the Christian community, so that they may learn to know God in public worship and private prayer, follow Jesus Christ in the life of faith, serve their neighbour after the example of Christ, and in due course come to confirmation.
As part of the Church of Christ, we all have a duty to support them by prayer, example and teaching. As their parents and godparents, you have the prime responsibility for guiding and helping them in their early years. This is a demanding task for which you will need the help and grace of God. Therefore let us now pray for grace in guiding these children in the way of faith.
One or more of the following prayers may be used
Faithful and loving God,
bless those who care for these children
and grant them your gifts of love, wisdom and faith.
Pour upon them your healing and reconciling love,
and protect their home from all evil.
Fill them with the light of your presence
and establish them in the joy of your kingdom,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
God of grace and life,
in your love you have given us
a place among your people;
keep us faithful to our baptism,
and prepare us for that glorious day
when the whole creation will be made perfect
in your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
If the newly baptized are old enough to understand, these words may be added:
N. and N.,
Today God has touched you with his love
and given you a place among his people.
God promises to be with you
in joy and in sorrow,
to be your guide in life,
and to bring you safely to heaven.
In baptism God invites you on a life-long journey.
Together with all God’s people
you must explore the way of Jesus
and grow in friendship with God,
in love for his people,
and in serving others.
With us you will listen to the word of God
and receive the gifts of God.
or
To the newly baptized who are able to answer for themselves, a minister says
Those who are baptized are called to worship and serve God.
Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship,
in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers?
With the help of God, I will.
Will you persevere in resisting evil,
and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
With the help of God, I will.
Will you proclaim by word and example
the good news of God in Christ?
With the help of God, I will.
Will you seek and serve Christ in all people,
loving your neighbour as yourself?
With the help of God, I will.
Will you acknowledge Christ’s authority over human society,
by prayer for the world and its leaders,
by defending the weak, and by seeking peace and justice?
With the help of God, I will.
May Christ dwell in your heart(s) through faith,
that you may be rooted and grounded in love
and bring forth the fruit of the Spirit. Amen.
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Either here or after the Welcome and Peace intercessions are led by the president or others. These or other suitable words may be used. Other forms are provided in appendices 2 and 4. The intercession may conclude with a collect.
As a royal priesthood, let us pray to the Father
through Christ who ever lives to intercede for us.
Reveal your kingdom among the nations
may peace abound and justice flourish.
(Especially for ...)
Your name be hallowed.
Your kingdom come.
Send down upon us the gift of the Spirit
and renew your Church with power from on high.
(Especially for ...)
Your name be hallowed.
Your kingdom come.
Deliver the oppressed, strengthen the weak,
heal and restore your creation.
(Especially for ...)
Your name be hallowed.
Your kingdom come.
Rejoicing in the fellowship of the Church on earth,
we join our prayers with all the saints in glory.
Your name be hallowed.
Your kingdom come.
WELCOME AND PEACE
There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism:
N. and N., by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body.
We welcome you into the fellowship of faith;
we are children of the same heavenly Father,
we welcome you.
The congregation may greet the newly baptized.
The president introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words:
(seasonal forms are provided in Appendix 2)
We are all one in Christ Jesus.
We belong to him through faith,
heirs of the promise of the Spirit of peace.
The peace of the Lord be always with you.
And also with you.
A minister may say:
Let us offer one another a sign of peace.
All may exchange a sign of peace.
If the Liturgy of the Eucharist does not follow immediately, the service continues with suitable prayers, ending with the Lord’s Prayer and The Sending Out.
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
The Eucharist continues with
PREPARATION OF THE TABLE
TAKING OF THE BREAD AND WINE
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
This proper preface may be used
And now we give you thanks
because by water and the Holy Spirit
you have made us a holy people in Jesus Christ our Lord;
you raise us to new life in him
and renew in us the image of your glory.
LORD’S PRAYER
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
GlVING OF THE BREAD AND WINE
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Either the authorized post communion prayer of the day or the following is used:
(optional seasonal forms are provided in Appendix 2)
Eternal God, our beginning and our end,
preserve in your people the new life of baptism;
as Christ receives us on earth,
so may he guide us through the trials of this world
and enfold us in the joy of heaven,
where you live and reign,
one God for ever and ever. Amen.
SENDING OUT
BLESSING
The president may use a seasonal blessing (appendix 2), or another suitable blessing,
or
The God of all grace,
who called you to his eternal glory in Christ Jesus,
establish, strengthen and settle you in the faith;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit,
be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.
GIVING OF A LIGHTED CANDLE
The president or another person may give each of the newly baptized a lighted candle. These may be lit from the candle lit at the Decision.
When all the newly baptized have received a candle, the president says
God has delivered us from the dominion of darkness
and has given us a place with the saints in light.
You have received the light of Christ;
walk in this light all the days of your life.
Shine as a light in the world
to the glory of God the Father.
DISMISSAL
Go in the light and peace of Christ.
Thanks be to God.
From Easter Day to Pentecost ‘Alleluia Alleluia’ may be added to both the versicle and the response.
Appendix 1
A THANKSGIVING PRAYER FOR CHILDREN
We rejoice today with the family of N. and N.
as they thank God for the gift of life
and bring their children for baptism.
God our creator,
we thank you for the wonder of new life
and for the mystery of human love.
We give thanks for all whose support and skill
surround and sustain the beginning of life.
As Jesus knew love and discipline within a human family,
may these children grow in strength and wisdom.
As Mary knew the joys and pains of motherhood,
give these parents your sustaining grace and love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Appendix 2
SEASONAL MATERIAL
This section contains seasonal texts to supplement those printed in the Baptism service.
The material in each set of seasonal texts comprises: Introduction, Collect, Prayer over the Water, Words at the Peace, Prayers of Intercession, Prayer after Communion and Blessing. Responsive forms of the Prayer over the Water are given in appendix 3.
Sets of readings are provided in appendix 4, grouped under four headings: General; Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity; Easter—Pentecost; All Saints.
The headings, Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity, Easter—Pentecost and 411 Saints indicate the seasonal emphases of the material.
1) Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity
INTRODUCTION
At our Lord’s baptism in the river Jordan
God showed himself to all who have eyes to see and ears to hear.
The Father spoke from heaven, the Spirit descended as a dove
and Jesus was anointed with power from on high.
Here is the door of faith,
through which we enter the kingdom of heaven.
As children of God, we are adopted as his sons and daughters,
and called to proclaim the wonders of him
who called us out of darkness into his marvellous light.
COLLECT
Lord of all time and eternity,
you opened heaven’s gate and revealed yourself as Father
by the voice that called Jesus your beloved Son,
baptizing him, in the power of the Spirit:
reveal yourself to us now, to claim us as your children,
and so complete the heavenly work of our rebirth
in the waters of the new creation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Father, we give you thanks and praise
for your gift of water in creation;
for your Spirit, sweeping over the waters,
bringing light and life;
for your Son Jesus Christ our Lord,
baptized in the river Jordan.
We bless you for your new creation,
brought to birth by water and the Spirit,
and for your grace bestowed upon us your children,
washing away our sins.
May your holy and life-giving Spirit
move upon these waters.
Restore through them the beauty of your creation,
and bring those who are baptized
to new birth in the family of your Church.
Drown sin in the waters of judgement,
anoint your children with power from on high,
and make them one with Christ
in the freedom of your kingdom.
For all might, majesty, dominion and power are yours,
now and for ever.
Alleluia. Amen.
PEACE
If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation.
The old has passed away; the new has come.
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
God of glory,
whose radiance shines from the face of Christ,
give your children such assurance of your mercy
and such knowledge of your grace,
that, believing all you promise,
and receiving all you give,
they may be transformed ever more closely
by your Spirit into the image of Jesus, your Son.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
God of light,
whose life shines beyond all things
give us and all your Church
the will to follow Christ
and to bear his peace,
that the light of Christ
may bring confidence to the world,
and faithfulness to all who look to you in hope.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
God of power,
whose word gives life to heaven and earth,
pour your abundant gifts on all your creation,
that the blind may see, the fallen may be raised,
and your people find tongues to confess
your promises of a broken world made new.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
If the Eucharist does not follow, the prayers end with the LORD’S PRAYER.
In baptism God declares
that we are his children, whom he loves;
so let us pray:
Our Father ...
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
God of glory,
you inspire us with the breath of life
which brought to birth a new world in Christ.
May we who are reborn in him
be transformed by the renewal of our lives,
that the light of your new creation
may flood the world with your abundant grace;
through Christ our Lord.
BLESSING
God, who in his Christ gives us a spring of water
welling up to eternal life,
perfect in you the image of his glory;
and the blessing ....
2) Easter—Pentecost
INTRODUCTION
God raised Jesus Christ from the dead
and sent the Holy Spirit to recall the whole world to himself.
In baptism we die to sin and rise to newness of life in Christ.
Here we find rebirth in the Spirit,
and set our minds on his heavenly gifts.
As children of God, we are continually created anew,
as we walk the path of faith,
and feed on the forgiveness of his healing grace.
COLLECT
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
from whose wounded side flowed life for the world:
raise your people from sin and death
and build them as living stones
into the spiritual temple of your Church;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, world without end. Amen.
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ
was baptized in the river Jordan:
we thank you for the gift of water
to cleanse us and revive us.
We thank you that through the waters of the Red Sea
you led your people out of slavery to freedom in the promised land.
We thank you that through the deep waters of death
you brought your Son, and raised him to life in triumph.
Bless this water, that your servants who are washed in it
may be made one with Christ in his death and in his resurrection,
to be cleansed and delivered from all sin.
Send your Holy Spirit upon them,
bring them to new birth in the household of faith,
and raise them with Christ to full and eternal life;
for all might, majesty, authority, and power are yours,
now and for ever. Amen.
PEACE
The risen Christ came and stood among his disciples
and said ‘Peace be with you’.
Then were they glad when they saw the Lord.
or
God has made us one in Christ.
He has set his seal upon us, and as a pledge of what is to come
has given us the Spirit to dwell in our hearts.
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Father, we thank you that by baptism you have raised these your children with Christ to new life in the Spirit. Guide and protect them with your grace, that they may follow you all their days and grow in knowledge and love of you.
Father, by the victory of your Son,
give light to the world.
May Christ who conquered sin and death keep his whole Church
faithful to his gospel.
Help us always to hold fast to truth and to walk in the way of life.
Father, by the victory of your Son,
give light to the world.
May the Holy Spirit fill the hearts and minds of all nations to unite the world in peace and love. By your healing power restore all that is broken and unite us with you, our God and Father.
Father, by the victory of your Son,
give light to the world.
If the Eucharist does not follow, the prayers end with the LORD’S PRAYER.
Raised again with Christ in the power of the Spirit, we say:
Our Father...
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Author of life divine,
in the resurrection of your Son, you set before us
the mystery of his triumph over sin and death;
may all who are washed in the waters of rebirth
rise to newness of life
and find the promised presence of your abundant grace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord ...
BLESSING
God the Father, by whose glory Christ was raised from the dead,
strengthen you by his life-giving Spirit
to walk with him in the paths of righteousness and peace;
and the blessing ...
3) All Saints
INTRODUCTION
In baptism, God calls us to be his friends
and to make us holy in his Son Jesus Christ.
On this journey of faith we have no abiding city,
for we have the promise of the heavenly Jerusalem,
where the whole creation is brought to a new birth in the Holy Spirit.
Here we are united in the company of all the faithful,
and we look for the coming of the eternal kingdom.
As children of God, we look through this passing age
for the signs of the dawn of everlasting glory.
COLLECT
Almighty Father,
you have made us heirs through hope of your everlasting kingdom,
and in the waters of baptism you have promised
a measure of grace overflowing to all eternity.
Take our sins and guilt away,
and so inflame us with the life of your Spirit
that we may know your favour and goodness towards us,
and walk in newness of life, both now and for ever;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Lord of the heavens,
we bless your name for all your servants
who have been a sign of your grace through the ages.
You delivered Noah from the waters of destruction;
you divided the waters of the sea,
and by the hand of Moses
you led your people from slavery
into the promised land.
You made a new covenant in the blood of your Son,
that all who confess your name
may, by the Holy Spirit,
enter the covenant of grace,
receive a pledge of the kingdom of heaven,
and share in the divine nature.
Fill these waters, we pray, with the power of that same Spirit,
that all who enter them may be reborn,
and rise from the grave to new life in Christ.
As the apostles and prophets, the confessors and martyrs,
faithfully served you in their generation,
may we be built into an eternal dwelling for you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
PEACE
May the God of peace make you perfect and holy,
that you may be kept safe and blameless in spirit, soul, and body,
for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
or
We are fellow-citizens with the saints
and of the household of God
through Christ our Lord,
who came and preached peace to those who were far off
and those who were near.
PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
Heavenly Father,
receive into the arms of your mercy
all who. have been baptized
and make them your own for ever;
that, having tasted of your goodness,
they may ever hunger for your continuing presence
in their walk of faith.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done.
Stir up within your Church the zeal that inspires
your saints in every generation.
Give us a due sense of your grace,
and the strength to do your will.
You measure us by our needs;
may we never measure you by our impatience.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done.
Surrounded by so great a company of witnesses,
may we honour your blessings
in all the ages that have gone before,
and live in joyful expectation
of your promises in the ages yet to come.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done.
If the Eucharist does not follow, the prayers end with the LORD’S PRAYER.
Remember us Lord in your heavenly Kingdom
as we your children unite our prayers with your Son:
Our Father ...
PRAYER AFTER COMMUNION
Lord, in the vision of your heavenly kingdom
you reveal among us the promise of your glory;
may that glory be ours
as we claim our citizenship in the kingdom
where you are alive and reign, one God, for ever and ever.
BLESSING
May God, who kindled the fire of his love in the hearts of the saints,
give you joy in their fellowship,
and strengthen you to follow them in the way of holiness;
and the blessing ...
Appendix 3
RESPONSIVE FORMS OF THE PRAYERS OVER THE WATER
General
The refrain Lord of life, renew your creation may be said or sung. The first italicised phrase may be said or sung by a deacon or other minister.
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
We thank you, almighty God, for the gift of water
to sustain, refresh and renew all life.
Over water the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation.
Through water you led the children of Israel
from slavery in Egypt to freedom in the promised land.
In water your Son Jesus received the baptism of John
and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ,
to lead us from the death of sin to newness of life.
Lord of life, renew your creation.
We thank you, Father, for the water of baptism.
In it we are buried with Christ in his death.
By it we share in his resurrection.
Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.
Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son,
we baptize into his fellowship those who come to him in faith
Lord of life, renew your creation.
Now sanctify this water, that by the power of your Holy Spirit
they may be cleansed from sin and born again.
Renewed in your image, may they walk by the light of faith
and continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Lord;
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be all honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Lord of life, renew your creation.
Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Father, for your gift of water in creation,
we give you thanks and praise.
For your Spirit, sweeping over the waters,
bringing light and life~
we give you thanks and praise.
For your Son Jesus Christ our Lord,
baptized in the river Jordan,
we give you thanks and praise.
For your new creation,
brought to birth by water and the Spirit,
we give you thanks and praise.
For your grace bestowed upon us your children,
washing away our sins,
we give you thanks and praise.
Father, accept our sacrifice of praise;
may your holy and life-giving Spirit
move upon these waters.
Lord, receive our prayer.
Restore through them the beauty of your creation,
and bring those who are baptized
to new birth in the family of your Church.
Lord, receive our prayer.
Drown sin in the waters of judgement,
anoint your children with power from on high,
and make them one with Christ
in the freedom of your kingdom.
Lord, receive our prayer.
For all might, majesty and dominion are yours,
now and for ever.
Alleluia. Amen.
Easter—Pentecost
The refrain Saving God, give us life may be said or sung The first italicised phrase may be said or sung by a deacon or other minister.
Praise God who has made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Almighty God, whose Son Jesus Christ
was baptized in the river Jordan,
we thank you for the gift of water
to cleanse and revive us.
Saving God, give us life.
We thank you that through the waters of the Red Sea
you led your people out of slavery
to freedom in the promised land.
Saving God, give us life.
We thank you that through the deep waters of death
you brought your Son,
and raised him to life in triumph.
Saving God, give us life.
Bless this water, that your servants who are washed in it
may be made one with Christ in his death and in his resurrection,
to be cleansed and delivered from all sin.
Saving God, give us life.
Send your Holy Spirit upon them,
bring them to new birth in the household of faith
and raise them with Christ to full and eternal life;
for all might, majesty, authority and power are yours,
now and for ever. Amen.
Saving God, give us life.
All Saints
The refrain Hope of the Saints, make known your glory may be said or sung. The first italicised phrase may be said or sung by a deacon or other minister.
Praise God who made heaven and earth,
who keeps his promise for ever.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
Lord of the heavens,
we bless your name for all your servants
who have been a sign of your grace through the ages.
Hope of the Saints, make known your glory.
You delivered Noah from the waters of destruction;
you divided the waters of the sea,
and by the hand of Moses
you led your people from slavery
into the promised land.
Hope of the Saints, make known your glory.
You made a new covenant in the blood of your Son,
that all who confess his name
may, by the Holy Spirit,
enter the covenant of grace,
receive a pledge of the kingdom of heaven,
and share in the divine nature.
Hope of the Saints, make known your glory.
Fill these waters, we pray, with the power of that same Spirit,
that all who enter them may be reborn and rise from the grave
to new life in Christ.
Hope of the Saints, make known your glory.
As the apostles and prophets, the confessors and martyrs
faithfully served you in their generation,
may we be built into an eternal dwelling for you
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Hope of the Saints, make known your glory.
Appendix 4
ALTERNATIVE PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION
(Seasonal alternatives are provided in appendix 2)
The prayers may be led by the president or another minister.
We thank you that you have claimed for yourself
those who have been washed in the waters of rebirth.
Uphold them in this new life,
that they may ever remain steadfast in faith,
joyful in hope, and rooted in your love.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
Pour your blessing on all your people.
May our hearts ever praise you,
and find their perfect rest in you.
Grant us the freedom of your service
and peace in doing your will.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
The whole creation is filled with the light of your grace.
Dispel the darkness of our hearts, and forgive our sins and negligences,
that we may come at last to the light of your glory.
Father of life,
make known your glory.
If the Eucharist does not follow, the prayers end with the LORD’S PRAYER.
As your children, born again in Christ, we say:
Our Father ...
Appendix 5
BIBLE READINGS AND PSALMS AT HOLY BAPTISM
Sets of readings follow below, grouped under four headings: General, Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity, Easter—Pentecost, All Saints.
Psalm Old Testament New Testament Gospel
1. General
(a) Ps 66:5–12 Isa 43:1–7 Rom 5:6–11 Mk 1:1–11 (9–11)
(b) Ps 89:21,22,25–9 Gen 17:1–8 (or 22:15–18) Gal 3:27–4:7 Jn 15:1–11
(c) Ps 51:1–6 2 Kings 5:1–15a Titus 3:3–7 Jn 3:1–8
(d) Ps 46:1–7 Gen 7:1,7–16 1 Pet 3:18–22 Matt 28:16–20
2. Epiphany—Baptism of Christ—Trinity
(a) Ps 67 Exodus 33:12–20/Is 9:2,3,6–7 2 Cor 3:12–4:6 Jn 1:14–18
(b) Ps 146:5–9(12) Isa 42:5–8 Ac 9:(1 or)10–20 Luke 3:15–17, 21–22
(c) Ps 50:1–6 Isa 63:15,16; 64:1–4 1 Cor 10:1–4 Mk 1:1–11
3. Easter—Pentecost
(a) Ps 118:19–24 Ezek 37:1–14 Rom 6:3–11 Matt 28:16–20
(b) Ps 51:6–13 Ezek 36:24–28 Titus 3:3–7 Jn 20:19–23
(c) Ps 46:1–7 Ezek 47:1–12 Rev 22:1–5 Jn 7:37–39
4. All Saints
(a) Ps 98:1–4 Exod 19:3–8 Rev 5:6–10 Matt 28:16–20
(b) Ps 63:1–6 Isa 44:1–5 Heb 11:32–12:2 Matt 5:1–12 or 16
(c) Ps 92:10–15 Hos 14:4–8 1 Pet 2:4–10 Jn 15:1–11
5. Vigil or Post-Baptismal Liturgy
(a) Ps 121 Gen 28:10–17 Heb 10:(12–)19–23 Mk 10:(13–)17–27
(b) Ps 114 Exod 3(1)7–15 Heb 11 :24–29 Lk 9:(51–)57–62
6. Canticles in Procession to the Font
(a) Isaiah 12:2–6
(b) Psalm 42:1–7
(c) Deut. 32:1–4
(d) A Litany of the Resurrection (appendix 6)
Appendix 6
A LITANY OF THE RESURRECTION WHICH MAY BE USED IN PROCESSION TO THE BAPTISMAL FONT
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is gracious:
and his mercy endures for ever.
He has loved us from all eternity:
for his mercy endures for ever.
And remembered us when we were in trouble:
for his mercy endures for ever.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven:
for his mercy endures for ever.
He became incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and was made man:
for his mercy endures for ever.
By his cross and passion he has redeemed the world:
for his mercy endures for ever.
And has washed us from our sins in his own blood:
for his mercy endures for ever.
On the third day he rose again:
for his mercy endures for ever.
And has given us the victory:
for his mercy endures for ever.
He ascended into heaven:
for his mercy endures for ever.
And opened wide for us the everlasting doors:
for his mercy endures for ever.
He is seated at the right hand of the Father:
for his mercy endures for ever.
And ever lives to make intercession for us:
for his mercy endures for ever.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit:
As it was in the beginning, is now,
and shall be for ever. Amen.
For the gift of his Spirit:
Blessed be Christ.
For the catholic Church:
Blessed be Christ.
For the means of grace:
Blessed be Christ.
For the hope of glory:
Blessed be Christ.
For the triumphs of his gospel:
Blessed be Christ.
For the lives of his saints:
Blessed be Christ.
In joy and in sorrow:
Blessed be Christ.
In life and in death:
Blessed be Christ.
Now and to the end of the ages:
Blessed be Christ.
Appendix 7
ALTERNATIVE PROFESSION OF FAITH
The president says
Let us affirm,
together with these who are being baptized,
our common faith in Jesus Christ.
Do you believe and trust in God the Father,
source of all being and life,
the one for whom we exist?
I believe and trust in him.
Do you believe and trust in God the Son,
who took our human nature,
died for us and rose again?
I believe and trust in him.
Do you believe and trust in God the Holy Spirit,
who gives life to the people of God
and makes Christ known in the world?
I believe and trust in him.
This is the faith of the Church.
This is our faith.
We believe and trust in one God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
THE BAPTISM OF CHILDREN AT THE EUCHARIST
The service of Holy Baptism provides for baptism in the context of the Eucharist. The following notes aim to highlight the implication of this for the baptism of children at a parish’s regular Sunday Eucharist.
1. The opening of the service should include an appropriate introduction and may include a prayer of thanksgiving for the child (appendix 1).
2. The Prayers of Penitence and the Nicene Creed are omitted
3. The presentation of the candidates for baptism takes place after the sermon. Alternatively it may form part of the opening section of the service; before the Gloria or Kyries (where these are used). If the presentation is used in this earlier position, it must precede the Collect.
4. Baptism takes place after the sermon.
5. An interrogatory version of the Apostles' Creed is provided in the text, to be said by the whole congregation. The Apostles’ Creed is the normal baptismal creed in the Western tradition. A shorter profession of faith can be found in Appendix 6.
6. The first form of the Commission is to be used at the baptism of children. It may be appropriate for the parents and godparents to bow their heads or kneel for the prayers.
7. A brief form of the prayers of intercession is provided. Longer seasonal forms are to be found in Appendix 2. The Prayers may be placed before or after the Welcome. If the prayers precede the Welcome and Peace, the liturgy of the eucharist then continues in the usual way with the preparation of the table and the taking of bread and wine.
8. A lighted candle is presented to the newly baptized as part of the conclusion of the service. It may be appropriate to invite the parents and godparents to the front at this point. The candle may be lit from the Paschal candle (or other large candle) previously lit at the Decision.
The following table indicates how the order of Holy Baptism is to be used with the services indicated.
ORDER OF THE EUCHARIST RITE 1 BCP AND THE EUCHARIST RITE 2
BAPTISM
[Thanksgiving] after the Greeting after sermon
Introduction [omit Prayer of Preparation and
Prayers of Penitence]
omit Nicene Creed omit Nicene Creed
Presentation after the Greeting or Sermon after Introduction
Baptism after the Sermon after Presentation
Prayers of Intercession after the Commission use Prayers of Intercession from Holy
Baptism in place of Prayer for Church
Militant
Welcome and Peace after the Prayers of Intercession use Welcome
after Commission
Prayer after after the Giving of Bread and Wine do not use
Communion
Giving of a lighted between the Blessing and Dismissal after blessing
candle
BAPTISM OF CHILDREN AT MORNING OR EVENING PRAYER
When appropriate, the service of Morning Prayer or Evening Prayer may be abbreviated.
The Prayers of Penitence may be omitted.
The Creed is omitted, being replaced by one of the interrogatory forms provided in the Order of Holy Baptism.
The service follows this order (the headings refer to the parts of the order for Holy Baptism).
Alternative positions are indicated in italics.
The introduction to the service may include:
THANKSGIVING FOR A CHILD
INTRODUCTION
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES
Morning or Evening Prayer to the end of the second reading
Then follow:
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES [IF NOT USED EARLIER]
DECISION
SIGNING WITH THE CROSS
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
PROFESSION OF FAITH
BAPTISM
COMMISSION
WELCOME
[THE PEACE]
Morning or Evening Prayer from the canticle after the second reading to the end of the service, omitting the Apostles’ Creed. At the prayers, appropriate intercessions from the service of Holy Baptism may be used.
The service concludes with:
BLESSING
GIVING OF A LIGHTED CANDLE
DISMISSAL
THE BAPTISM OF CHILDREN AT A SERVICE OF THE WORD
Headings refer to the Service of Holy Baptism.
Where alternative forms are provided in the order of Holy Baptism, they may be used with A Service of the Word
1. The Prayers of Penitence are not used
2. The Creed or Affirmation of Faith is replaced by the Profession of Faith.
3. The INTRODUCTION, THANKSGIVING FOR A CHILD, and PRESENTATION may be used as part of The Preparation or after The Ministry of the Word
4. The following sections are used after The Ministry of the Word:
PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATES [IF NOT USED EARLIER]
DECISION
SIGNING WITH THE CROSS
PRAYER OVER THE WATER
PROFESSION OF FAITH
BAPTISM
COMMISSION
WELCOME AND PEACE
Alternatively the PEACE may be used later in the service or omitted
5. The PRAYERS OF INTERCESSION may be used before or after the Welcome or later in the service.
6. The GIVING OF A LIGHTED CANDLE takes place at the conclusion of the service. Alternatively it may take place after the administration of baptism.
EMERGENCY BAPTISM
1. In an emergency, a lay person may be the minister of baptism, and should subsequently inform those who have the pastoral responsibility for the person so baptized.
2. Parents are responsible for requesting emergency baptism for an infant. They should be assured that questions of ultimate salvation or of the provision of a Christian funeral for an infant who dies do not depend upon whether or not the child has been baptized.
3. Before baptizing, the minister should ask the name of the person to be baptized. When, through the absence of parents or for some other reason, there is uncertainty as to the name of the person, the baptism can be properly administered without a name (so long as the identity of the person baptized can be duly recorded).
FORM FOR EMERGENCY BAPTISM
The following form is sufficient:
The minister pours water on the person to be baptized, saying
I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The minister may then say the Lord’s Prayer and the grace or a blessing.
If it is appropriate, some of the following may also be used.
BEFORE THE BAPTISM
Jesus says: I have come that you may have life
and have it in all its fullness. John 10.10
All that the Father gives me will come to me;
and whoever comes to me I will not turn away. John 6.37
The Lord is near to the broken hearted,
and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34.18
Heavenly Father,
grant that by your Holy Spirit
this child may be born again
and know your love in the new creation
given us in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
(at the signing with the cross)
N., may Christ protect and defend you.
Receive the sign of his cross.
(Prayer over the water)
Heavenly Father,
bless this water,
that whoever is washed in it
may be made one with Christ
in the fellowship of your Church,
and be brought through every tribulation
to share the risen life
that is ours in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
AFTER THE BAPTISM
Our Father...
Eternal God, our beginning and our end,
preserve in your people the new life of baptism;
as Christ receives us on earth,
so may he guide us through the trials of this world,
and enfold us in the joy of heaven,
where you live and reign,
one God for ever and ever. Amen.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God,
and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen.
or
May God almighty,
the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit,
bless and keep you this day and for ever more. Amen.
SERVICE IN CHURCH
Notes
1. If the person lives, they shall afterwards come to church, or be brought to church, and the order of Holy Baptism followed, except that the SIGNING WITH THE CROSS, the PRAYER OVER THE WATER and the BAPTISM are omitted.
2. It may be appropriate to use the form of Thanksgiving in Appendix 1.
3. At the PRESENTATION the president says:
We welcome N., who has been baptized and now comes to take his/her place in the company of God’s people.
4. Oil mixed with fragrant spices, expressing the blessings of the messianic era and the richness of the Holy Spirit, may be used to accompany the prayer after the baptism. It is appropriate that the oil should have been consecrated by the bishop.