A User's Guide to Baptism and Confirmation

Baptism and Confirmation – the Christian rites of initiation – have to do with identity, community, and eternal life. They’re not just ceremonies marking church membership – the meaning of these sacraments is far more radical than that. They’re ways of saying that we know who we are: We’re made in God’s image and called to belong to God forever.

This guide will help readers – newcomers, seekers, parents preparing to present their children for Baptism, confirmands, and even long-time parishioners – to understand and appreciate the Baptism and Confirmation, and the central role they play in the lives of Christians. Provided here is an introduction to the Baptismal Covenant, as well as a step-by-step guide through the rites of both sacraments. Readers will find running commentary on the rite, with facing pages containing the text from the Book of Common Prayer. Other useful features are glossaries and lists of resources for further reading.