Theology of Baptism: Module 4

Early Church Practice of Baptism

According to the Didache (one of the oldest Christian documents):

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Those who are not baptised "in the Lord's name" are forbidden from participating in the Holy Eucharist.

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The form of Baptism is to be that which utilizes the Trinitarian formula; thus, water was to be poured "thrice upon the candidate's head in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

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Early Church Practice of Baptism

Tertullian speaks of a detailed and extensive preparation of candidates for Baptism, which could last for up to three years.

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The Baptism of the converts took place primarily around the Easter Vigil but could also take place at Pentecost.

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Early Church Practice of Baptism

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The Bishop was the one who presided, but he could delegate the responsibility to presbyters and deacons, and even laypersons are seen to be so authorized to administer Baptism.

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The complex rite which developed around the Baptism of Easter Eve included anointings, washing, laying on of hands and signing, embracing (kiss of peace), and eating and drinking.

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Early Church Practice of Baptism

Summary

The early church's rites of initiation and reconciliation were public, involving the whole community.

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The full rites of initiation came at Easter at the end of a long catechumenate

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This consisted of a variety of acts at the Easter vigil: anointings, renunciations, creedal profession, washing, laying on of hands, sealing, and eucharist.

Post-baptismal catechesis followed.

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It was a formalized way of ritualizing the whole process of conversion from first inquiry to final and total commitment, all tied directly to the celebration of the resurrection.

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