Since the Early Church, baptism has always been rich with rites, profound in theological concepts, and powerful in prayers and effectiveness. Consequently, I wanted to gather some of these details from the Early Church, both in the east and west; as well as referring to the contemporary Coptic rite which bears the spirit of the Early Church and its spiritual and theological depth. Indeed, there are some minor differences in the rites from one Church to another. Therefore, I put together a general framework upon which all of them are built, while also highlighting the differences. I also present the theological and spiritual concepts behind every rite from a biblical and patristic perspective.
- Preparation of the celebrant.
- Examination of the candidates for baptism.
- Learning the sign of the cross.
- Recitations for exorcising evil spirits.
- Removal of clothes.
- Anointment of the candidate with oil.
- Renunciation of the devil.
- The mystery of the opening.
- Confession of faith.
- Sanctification of the water.
- Pouring Chrism into the water.
- Three-fold immersion.
- Washing of the feet.
- Anointment of the candidate with the Chrism.
- Donning white garments.
- Instruction of the sponsor.
- Carrying candles.
- Eating milk mixed with honey.
- The prayer of untying the girdle.