Celebration after an Initiation Service outside the Parish ↑
Note
When baptism, confirmation and/or affirmation of baptismal faith have been celebrated outside the parish, for example in the cathedral church or in another church within the deanery, it may be appropriate for the regular congregation to acknowledge this important transition. If this Celebration is used, it should normally be included in the principal service on the following Sunday.
Pastoral Introduction ↑
This may be read by those present before the service begins.
Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives. In the last months N and N have been exploring the meaning of baptism in Jesus Christ. They have looked together at the call to discipleship in the world and in the Church. They have sought to understand the responsibilities of discipleship in today’s world. We celebrate with them their baptism / confirmation by Bishop N / affirmation of baptismal faith and will seek to learn with them the Way of Christ.
Prayers of Intercession ↑
At the Prayers of Intercession the following may be used
We pray for N and N,
that they may continue to grow in the grace of Christ,
take their place among the company of your people,
and reflect your glory in the world.
Lord, in your mercy
All hear our prayer.
The Welcome and Peace ↑
The president says
I present to you N and N who have recently been baptized / confirmed / affirmed their baptismal faith. Will you welcome them and uphold them in their new life in Christ?
All With the help of God, we will.
There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism:
N and N, by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body.
All We welcome you into the fellowship of faith;
we are children of the same heavenly Father;
we welcome you.
An opportunity may be given for testimony.
The president introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words
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
All and also with you.
A minister may say
Let us offer one another a sign of peace.
All may exchange a sign of peace.
Thanksgiving for Holy Baptism ↑
Notes
1 Thanksgiving for Holy Baptism should be made by the newly initiated and the regular congregation some weeks after initiation. This rite is based upon the general Thanksgiving for Holy Baptism (Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, pages 48–49). It may instead be appropriate to use the Thanksgiving for the Mission of the Church (Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, pages 54–56).
2 It may be appropriate to present the newly initiated with a gift during this rite. This may be a Bible if one has not already been given (see Note 4, here) or another gift.
This prayer of thanksgiving is said and water may be poured into the font
God in Christ gives us water welling up for eternal life.
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
All Lord, give us this water and we shall thirst no more.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
All It is right to give thanks and praise.
Blessed are you, sovereign God of all,
to you be glory and praise for ever.
You are our light and our salvation.
From the deep waters of death
you have raised your Son to life in triumph.
Grant that all who have been born anew by water and the Spirit
may daily be renewed in your image,
walk by the light of faith,
and serve you in newness of life;
through your anointed Son, Jesus Christ,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
we lift our voices of praise.
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
All Blessed be God for ever.
The minister leads the congregation in the Commission
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?
All 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?
All With the help of God, I will.
Will you proclaim by word and example
the good news of God in Christ?
All With the help of God, I will.
Will you seek and serve Christ in all people,
loving your neighbour as yourself?
All 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?
All With the help of God, I will.
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.
All Amen.
Those who have recently been baptized or confirmed, or have recently affirmed their baptismal faith, may be invited forward. They may be given the opportunity to give testimony, and may then be presented with a gift.
Prayers of intercession are offered. These should include prayer for those who are preparing for baptism and for those recently baptized. They may end with this or another collect
Almighty God,
in our baptism you have consecrated us
to be temples of your Holy Spirit.
May we, whom you have counted worthy,
nurture this gift of your indwelling Spirit with a lively faith
and worship you with upright lives;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All Amen.
The water may be sprinkled over the people or they may be invited to sign themselves with the cross using the water in the font. The minister says
As we follow the Way of Christ,
we affirm the presence of God among us,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
(The words in italics may be spoken by a second voice.)
God calls us to share in worship.
Jesus said, where two or three are gathered in my name,
I am there among them.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
God calls us to share in prayer.
Jesus said, remain in me, and I will remain in you.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
God calls us to share the Scriptures.
Jesus met his disciples on the road
and opened the Scriptures to them.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
God calls us to share in communion.
Jesus said, do this in remembrance of me.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
God calls us to share in service.
Jesus said, as you do it for the least of these, you do it for me.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
God calls us to share the good news.
Jesus said, go and make disciples of all nations.
All Jesus, you are the Way: guide us on our journey.
The service ends either with the Peace or with the following blessing said from the font
May God, who in Christ gives us a spring of water welling up to eternal life,
perfect in you the image of his glory;
and the blessing of God almighty,
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
be among you and remain with you always.
All Amen.
Admission of the Baptized to Communion ↑
Notes
1 This rite is intended for use in accordance with any regulations made by the General Synod under Canon B 15A.
2 The congregation should be made aware that people from the church are being prepared for communion. Those being prepared can be introduced to the congregation, for example by displaying photographs (with consent) and by inviting the congregation to pray for them. Godparents and sponsors, as well as families, may be invited to the service. In the case of children, the goodwill of those parents who are not regularly members of the congregation should always be sought and obtained.
3 To make it clear that the admission of the baptized to communion before confirmation is neither another baptism service nor a confirmation, baptismal water should not be used, and neither the laying on of hands nor anointing with oil should take place. Similarly, a bishop should not normally preside at this rite, as this might confuse it with confirmation. Those admitted should generally receive communion with their family and friends.
4 The rite should normally be used in a main Sunday service. It is not necessary to use every part of the order provided.
5 The Welcome of those being admitted may be used at the Greeting or before the Peace. If thought appropriate, the Questions may be used instead of the Welcome; if so, they are used before the Peace.
6 The Profession of Faith from the baptism service, the Affirmation of the Christian Way (here) and the forms of intercession here may be particularly suitable.
Pastoral Introduction ↑
This may be read by those present before the service begins.
Today we welcome to communion N and N who share faithfully and regularly in our worship. A person is admitted to communion on the basis of their baptism, the sign and pledge of incorporation into the death and resurrection of Christ and the new life of the kingdom of God. N and N have been baptized, and today they receive the sacrament of the body and blood of Christ with us. They are taking a new step in the life to which God has called them in baptism and which we trust they will later affirm in confirmation. We welcome them and look forward to learning with and from them as we journey together on the Way of Christ.
The Welcome ↑
The president may invite those to be welcomed to stand before the people, and introduces them in these or other suitable words
We are God’s pilgrim people.
We share in the story of God’s love for the world,
God’s love in Christ, calling us to himself,
God’s love in the Spirit, giving strength for our journey of faith.
We celebrate this love in word and song,
we feed on Jesus in bread and wine
and make him known through our life together.
As the people of God in this place, we share the responsibility
of encouraging one another in our worship and supporting one
another in our discipleship, by our example and our prayers.
N and N, we welcome you in Jesus’ name to receive communion with us.
At the Prayers of Intercession ↑
We pray for N and N,
that they may draw near with confidence to your throne of grace
and know in their lives the transforming power of your love.
Lord, in your mercy
All hear our prayer.
The Peace ↑
The president introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words
We are the body of Christ.
In the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body.
Let us then pursue all that makes for peace
and builds up our common life.
(or)
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
All and also with you.
At the Preparation of the Table ↑
Those welcomed to communion may lead the prayers at the preparation of the table.
With this bread that we bring
All we shall remember Jesus.
With this wine that we bring
All we shall remember Jesus.
Bread for his body,
wine for his blood,
gifts from God to his table we bring.
All We shall remember Jesus.
Proper Preface ↑
And now we give you thanks
that you call us into the communion of your love;
your overflowing grace makes us partakers in the divine nature
and a sign of your kingdom.
Post Communion ↑
The Post Communion of the day or this Post Communion is said
We praise and thank you, O Christ, for this sacred feast:
for here we receive you,
here the memory of your passion is renewed,
here our minds are filled with grace,
and here a pledge of future glory is given,
when we shall feast at that table where you reign
with all your saints for ever.
All Amen.
At the Dismissal ↑
At the Dismissal, a blessing appropriate to the day or the blessing for the Day of Pentecost (Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, page 321) may be used.
Those admitted to communion may be invited forward, and the following may be said
God has touched us with his love
and nourished us at his table.
As God’s pilgrim people,
may we continue to explore the Way of Christ,
and grow in friendship with God,
in love for his people, and in serving others.
Those who have been admitted to communion may lead the following
To a troubled world
peace from Christ.
To a searching world
love from Christ.
To a waiting world
hope from Christ.
The Questions ↑
If it is thought appropriate to use these Questions instead of the Welcome, they may be used before the Peace.
The minister addresses the congregation
Brothers and sisters, today we are welcoming N and N to Holy Communion. As parents and godparents, and as the community of St N’s, we share the responsibility of encouraging them in their worship, and of supporting them by our friendship, our example and our prayers. Will you help them to grow in faith and love?
All We will.
The minister addresses those being welcomed
N and N, you love God, you follow Jesus, and you live the Christian life.
Do you wish to receive Holy Communion?
Yes.
As N and N receive today the sacrament of the body and blood
of Christ, let us pray that we may all know and reflect the love
of Christ.
God of life,
you invite us to eat at your table;
may we know your love
as we share your heavenly food,
and shine with your light
all the days of our life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All Amen.
A Form for the Corporate Renewal of Baptismal Vows ↑
when celebrated within a service other than Baptism or Confirmation
Notes ↑
1 This form should be used only when there has been due notice and proper preparation. It is recommended that it is used no more than once or twice in any one year. Suitable opportunities include Easter, Pentecost, the Baptism of Christ in Epiphany, and the inauguration of a new ministry.
2 This form is a corporate affirmation for use within a service.
When it is used it replaces the Creed or other Affirmation of Faith.
3 Where it is customary for the assembly to be sprinkled with water from the font or to sign themselves with water from the font, this may take place immediately after the Profession of Faith or during a hymn, canticle or song at the conclusion of this form.
A Corporate Renewal of Baptismal Vows
The president may use words of introduction to this part of the service.
A large candle may be lit. The president may address the congregation as follows
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?
All I reject them.
Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?
All I renounce them.
Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?
All I repent of them.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
All I turn to Christ.
Do you submit to Christ as Lord?
All I submit to Christ.
Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?
All I come to Christ.
The president may say
May God, who has given you the desire to follow Christ,
give you the strength to continue in the Way.
The Profession of Faith
The president addresses the congregation
Brothers and sisters, I ask you to profess the faith of the Church.
Do you believe and trust in God the Father?
All I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe and trust in his Son Jesus Christ?
All I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who 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 to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?
All 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.
The president says
Almighty God,
we thank you for our fellowship in the household of faith
with all who have been baptized into your name.
Keep us faithful to our baptism,
and so make us ready for that day
when the whole creation shall be made perfect in your Son,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
All Amen.
The president may use the Affirmation of Commitment (here).
The president concludes the Renewal of Vows saying
May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith,
that you may be rooted and grounded in love
and bring forth the fruit of the Spirit.
All Amen.
¶ Affirmation of Commitment
This Affirmation of Commitment may be used after an authorized Creed or Affirmation of Faith
Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship,
in the breaking of the bread, and in the prayers?
All 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?
All With the help of God, I will.
Will you proclaim by word and example
the good news of God in Christ?
All With the help of God, I will.
Will you seek and serve Christ in all people,
loving your neighbour as yourself?
All 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?
All With the help of God, I will.
Affirmation of Baptismal Faith within a Celebration of Holy Communion ↑
Note
Affirmation of Baptismal Faith does not of necessity require the presence of a bishop and may be presided over by a priest.
¶ Preparation
At the entrance of the ministers, a hymn may be sung.
The Greeting ↑
The president greets the people using these or other suitable words
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
All Blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.
From Easter Day to Pentecost this acclamation follows
Alleluia. Christ is risen.
He is risen indeed. Alleluia.
There is one body and one spirit.
All There is one hope to which we were called;
one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
All one God and Father of all.
The Lord be with you
All and also with you.
The president may introduce the service.
The Gloria in excelsis may be used.
The Presentation of the Candidates may take place here or after the Sermon.
The Collect ↑
The president introduces a period of silent prayer with the words ‘Let us pray’ or a more specific bidding.
The Collect of the Day is normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. For other occasions a seasonal collect (here) or this Collect is used
Heavenly Father,
by the power of your Holy Spirit
you give 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 in the unity of the Holy Spirit
now and for ever.
All Amen.
¶ The Liturgy of the Word
Readings ↑
The readings of the day are normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. For other occasions, see here and here.
Either one or two readings from Scripture may precede the Gospel reading.
At the end of each the reader may say
This is the word of the Lord.
All 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.
All Glory to you, O Lord.
At the end
This is the Gospel of the Lord.
All Praise to you, O Christ.
Sermon ↑
¶ Affirmation of Baptismal Faith
Presentation of the Candidates ↑
The candidates may be presented to the congregation.
The president asks those affirming their faith
Have you been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit?
I have.
The president asks the candidates
Are you ready with your own mouth and from your own heart to affirm your faith in Jesus Christ?
I am.
Testimony by the candidates may follow.
The president addresses the whole congregation
People of God, will you [welcome these candidates and]
uphold them in their life in Christ?
All With the help of God, we will.
The Decision
(if pastorally appropriate) ↑
A large candle may be lit. The president addresses the candidates
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.
Where there are strong pastoral reasons, the alternative form of the Decision (here) may be used.
The president may say
May God, who has given you the desire to follow Christ,
give you the strength to continue in the Way.
All Amen.
The ministers and those who are to affirm their baptismal faith gather at the baptismal font. A canticle, psalm, hymn or litany may be used (see here).
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?
All I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe and trust in his Son Jesus Christ?
All I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who 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 to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?
All 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.
Declaration ↑
Those who are to affirm their baptismal faith stand before the president, who says
I call upon those who are affirming their baptismal faith to renew their commitment to Jesus Christ.
The candidates face the people and make this declaration
I answer the call of God my creator.
I trust in Jesus Christ as my Saviour.
I seek new life from the Holy Spirit.
The congregation responds
All God, who has called you, is faithful.
Rejoice in your baptism into Jesus Christ.
Walk with us in the life of the Spirit.
The candidates may come forward to the font and sign themselves with water, or the president may sprinkle them.
Then the president says
Almighty God,
we thank you for our fellowship in the household of faith
with all who have been baptized into your name.
Keep us faithful to our baptism,
and so make us ready for that day
when the whole creation shall be made perfect in your Son,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
All Amen.
The president and the candidates gather before the congregation. A hymn, chant or litany may be used.
Affirmation of Baptismal Faith ↑
The president extends his/her hands towards those who seek to affirm their baptismal faith and says
God of mercy and love,
in baptism you welcome the sinner
and restore the dead to life.
You create a clean heart in those who repent,
and give your Holy Spirit to those who ask.
Grant that these your servants may grow
into the fullness of the stature of Christ.
Equip them with the gifts of your Holy Spirit,
and fill them with faith in Jesus Christ
and with love for all your people,
in the service of your kingdom.
All Amen.
The president lays his/her hand on each one, saying
N, may God renew his life within you
that you may confess his name this day and for ever.
All Amen.
The president invites the congregation to pray for those who have affirmed their faith
All Defend, O Lord, these your servants with your heavenly grace,
that they may continue yours for ever,
and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more
until they come to your everlasting kingdom. Amen.
Commission ↑
The president may use this Commission here or at the beginning of the Sending Out.
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 ↑
The Prayers of Intercession may follow. The prayers provided in the service of Holy Baptism may be used (see here). For seasonal forms and an alternative form, see here and here.
If the Liturgy of the Eucharist does not follow immediately, the Prayers of Intercession may follow the Peace.
The Peace ↑
The president introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words. (For seasonal Introductions to the Peace, see here.)
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 the Spirit to dwell in our hearts.
The peace of the Lord be always with you
All 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 (here).
¶ The Liturgy of the Eucharist
The Order for Celebration of Holy Communion continues with
Preparation of the Table ↑
Taking of the Bread and Wine ↑
The Eucharistic Prayer ↑
This short 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.
The Lord’s Prayer ↑
Breaking of the Bread ↑
Giving of Communion ↑
Prayer after Communion ↑
The authorized Post Communion of the Day is normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. On other occasions a seasonal Post Communion (see here), or the following is used
God of mercy,
by whose grace alone we are accepted
and equipped for your service:
stir up in us the gifts of your Holy Spirit
and make us worthy of our calling;
that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit
in love and joy and peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All Amen.
¶ The Sending Out
If it has not been used earlier, the president may use the Commission (here).
The Blessing ↑
The president may use a seasonal blessing (here), 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 among you and remain with you always.
All Amen.
The Dismissal ↑
Go in the light and peace of Christ.
All Thanks be to God.
From Easter Day to Pentecost Alleluia, alleluia may be added to both the versicle and the response.
Notes ↑
1 This provision is intended for those who are already baptized and confirmed and who, after preparation and instruction, come to make a public act of commitment. It is not intended for use when an entire congregation renews its baptismal vows, for which separate provision is made (see here).
2 Affirmation of Baptismal Faith does not of necessity require the presence of the bishop and may be presided over by a priest.
3 When Affirmation of Baptismal Faith takes place within a celebration of Holy Communion, the Notes to the Order for the Celebration of Holy Communion apply equally to this service.
4 When Affirmation of Baptismal Faith takes place at a parish’s regular Sunday celebration of Holy Communion,
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used either before the Collect or after the Sermon
¶ the Prayers of Penitence are omitted
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Sermon
¶ the Nicene Creed is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith or at the beginning of the Sending Out
¶ after the Prayers of Intercession, the Welcome may precede the Peace
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
5 When Affirmation of Baptismal Faith takes place at A Service of the Word,
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used either as part of the Preparation or after the Liturgy of the Word
¶ the Prayers of Penitence are omitted
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Liturgy of the Word
¶ the Creed or Authorized Affirmation of Faith is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith or immediately before the Conclusion
¶ the Prayers of Intercession are used in the Prayers
¶ the Welcome and Peace may (optionally) be used before or after the Prayers or at the end
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
6 When Affirmation of Baptismal Faith takes place at Morning or Evening Prayer,
¶ the Prayers of Penitence may be omitted
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used after the second reading
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Presentation
¶ the Creed or Authorized Affirmation of Faith is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Affirmation of Baptismal Faith or at the end
¶ the Prayers of Intercession are used in the Prayers
¶ the Welcome and Peace may (optionally) be used before or after the Prayers or at the end
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
Reception into the Communion of the Church of England within a Celebration of Holy Communion ↑
Note
Reception into the Communion of the Church of England is governed by Canon B 28; except where the person concerned is a priest, the service may be presided over by the parish priest.
¶ Preparation
At the entrance of the ministers, a hymn may be sung.
The Greeting ↑
The president greets the people using these or other suitable words
Blessed be God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
All Blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.
From Easter Day to Pentecost this acclamation follows
Alleluia. Christ is risen.
He is risen indeed. Alleluia.
There is one body and one spirit.
All There is one hope to which we were called;
one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
All one God and Father of all.
The Lord be with you
All and also with you.
The president may introduce the service.
The Gloria in excelsis may be used.
The Presentation of the Candidates may take place here or after the Sermon.
The Collect ↑
The president introduces a period of silent prayer with the words ‘Let us pray’ or a more specific bidding.
The Collect of the Day is normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. For other occasions a seasonal collect (here) or this Collect is used
Heavenly Father,
by the power of your Holy Spirit
you give 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 in the unity of the Holy Spirit
now and for ever.
All Amen.
¶ The Liturgy of the Word
Readings ↑
The readings of the day are normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. For other occasions, see here and here.
Either one or two readings from Scripture may precede the Gospel reading.
At the end of each the reader may say
This is the word of the Lord.
All 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.
All Glory to you, O Lord.
At the end
This is the Gospel of the Lord.
All Praise to you, O Christ.
Sermon ↑
¶ Reception into the Communion of the Church of England
Presentation of the Candidates ↑
The candidates may be presented to the congregation.
The president asks the candidates
Have you been baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit?
I have.
Are you ready with your own mouth and from your own heart to affirm your faith in Jesus Christ?
I am.
The Decision
(if pastorally appropriate) ↑
A large candle may be lit. The president addresses the candidates
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.
Where there are strong pastoral reasons, the alternative form of the Decision (here) may be used.
The president may say
May God, who has given you the desire to follow Christ,
give you the strength to continue in the Way.
All Amen.
The ministers and candidates for reception into the communion of the Church of England gather at the baptismal font. A canticle, psalm, hymn or litany may be used (see here).
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?
All I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe and trust in his Son Jesus Christ?
All I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who 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 to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?
All 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.
Declaration ↑
Those who are to be received into the communion of the Church of England stand before the president to make this declaration.
The president says
You are here to be received into the communion of the
Church of England.
Do you acknowledge the Church of England as part of the one,
holy, catholic and apostolic Church?
I do.
Do you accept the teaching, discipline and authority of the
Church of England?
I do.
Will you take part with us in worship and mission?
I will.
The candidates may come forward to the font and sign themselves with water, or the president may sprinkle them.
Then the president says
Almighty God,
we thank you for our fellowship in the household of faith
with all who have been baptized into your name.
Keep us faithful to our baptism,
and so make us ready for that day
when the whole creation shall be made perfect in your Son,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
All Amen.
The president and the candidates gather before the congregation. A hymn, chant or litany may be used.
Reception into the Communion of the Church of England ↑
The president extends his/her hands towards those who are to be received and says
God of mercy and love,
by one Spirit we have all been baptized into one body
and made to drink of the one Spirit;
we thank you for the gifts you have given to these your servants
for the building up of the body of Christ.
Grant that they may continue in the life of the Spirit
and walk with us in the light and obedience of Christ.
By the same Spirit,
fill the whole Church with your overflowing love;
give us knowledge and discernment of your will,
and steadfastness in your service,
until we all come to the unity of the faith,
to the measure of the full stature of Christ,
through whom we make our prayer.
All Amen.
The president takes the hand of each person to be received, saying
N, we recognize you as a member of the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church;
and we receive you into the communion of the Church of England in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
All Amen.
The president invites the congregation to pray for those received into the communion of the Church of England
All Defend, O Lord, these your servants with your heavenly grace,
that they may continue yours for ever,
and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more
until they come to your everlasting kingdom. Amen.
Commission ↑
The president may use this Commission here or at the beginning of the Sending Out.
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.
All Amen.
Prayers of Intercession ↑
The Prayers of Intercession may follow. The prayers provided in the service of Holy Baptism may be used (see here).
The Peace ↑
The president introduces the Peace in these or other suitable words. (For seasonal Introductions to the Peace, see here.)
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 the Spirit to dwell in our hearts.
The peace of the Lord be always with you
All 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 (here).
¶ The Liturgy of the Eucharist
The Order for Celebration of Holy Communion continues with
Preparation of the Table ↑
Taking of the Bread and Wine ↑
The Eucharistic Prayer ↑
This short 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.
The Lord’s Prayer ↑
Breaking of the Bread ↑
Giving of Communion ↑
Prayer after Communion ↑
The authorized Post Communion of the Day is normally used on Sundays, Principal Feasts, other Principal Holy Days and Festivals. On other occasions a seasonal Post Communion (see here), or the following is used
God of mercy,
by whose grace alone we are accepted
and equipped for your service:
stir up in us the gifts of your Holy Spirit
and make us worthy of our calling;
that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit
in love and joy and peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
All Amen.
¶ The Sending Out
If it has not been used earlier, the president may use the Commission (here).
The Blessing ↑
The president may use a seasonal blessing (here), 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 among you and remain with you always.
All Amen.
The Dismissal ↑
Go in the light and peace of Christ.
All Thanks be to God.
From Easter Day to Pentecost Alleluia, alleluia may be added to both the versicle and the response.
Notes ↑
1 Reception into the Communion of the Church of England is governed by Canon B 28.
2 Except where the person concerned is a priest, the service may be presided over by the parish priest.
3 When Reception into the Communion of the Church of England takes place within a celebration of Holy Communion, the Notes to the Order for the Celebration of Holy Communion apply equally to this service.
4 When Reception into the Communion of the Church of England takes place at a parish’s regular Sunday celebration of Holy Communion,
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used either before the Collect or after the Sermon
¶ the Prayers of Penitence are omitted
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Sermon
¶ the Nicene Creed is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Reception into Communion follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Reception into Communion or at the beginning of the Sending Out
¶ after the Prayers of Intercession, the Welcome may precede the Peace
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
5 When Reception into the Communion of the Church of England takes place at A Service of the Word,
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used either as part of the Preparation or after the Liturgy of the Word
¶ the Prayers of Penitence are omitted
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Liturgy of the Word
¶ the Creed or Authorized Affirmation of Faith is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Reception into Communion follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Reception into Communion or immediately before the Conclusion
¶ the Prayers of Intercession are used in the Prayers
¶ the Welcome and Peace may (optionally) be used before or after the Prayers or at the end
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
6 When Reception into the Communion of the Church of England takes place at Morning or Evening Prayer,
¶ the Prayers of Penitence may be omitted
¶ relevant parts of the Presentation are used after the second reading
¶ the Decision (if used) and the Profession of Faith follow the Presentation
¶ the Creed or Authorized Affirmation of Faith is replaced by the Profession of Faith
¶ the Reception into Communion follows
¶ the Commission may be used, either after the Reception into Communion or at the end
¶ the Prayers of Intercession are used in the Prayers
¶ the Welcome and Peace may (optionally) be used before or after the Prayers or at the end
¶ the Giving of a Lighted Candle is optional.
Common Worship: Christian Initiation material from which is included here,
is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2006 and published by Church House Publishing.
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