THE PREPARATION OF THE CANDIDATES FOR THE ACT OF BAPTISM

THE PREPARATION OF THE CANDIDATES FOR THE ACT OF BAPTISM

lb. The mechanics of baptism are very important, and therefore nothing should be left to chance.

2b. Every effort should be made to make the service orderly and attractive. It should always be remembered that this service is teaching truth by object.

3b. The general arrangements of the service should be looked at first. This deals with songs, instruction, prayers, place, people assisting, etc.

4b. The dress of the candidates, men and women, and that of the pastor who administers should be carefully attended to.

5b. Baptistry, water temperature, steps, place of kneeling, all such, should be carefully checked.

6b. Careful explanation of all the operations beforehand to the candidates is necessary. Remember, this is strange to them, and they may fear water.

7b. There may be certain customs that are followed in the local congregation that should be investigated. Older folk, deacons, etc., will know. This may include confirmation consisting of the laying on of hands right in the water, followed by candidate standing and the extension of the right hand of fellowship by the pastor, and then, the emergence from the baptismal waters.

8b. After one has done all that can be done, or all that he thinks of, there are doubtless some things that he will overlook. Therefore the need to be ever so careful.