Patterns for Baptism brings together all of the authorized Common Worship baptismal material, with a rich provision of practical guidance and commentary, to offer a flexible and adaptable range of resources for services of Christian initiation in varying pastoral contexts. Comprehensive and easy to use, it will enable services appropriate to local needs and contexts to be created with confidence and celebrated with joy.
Modelled on the widely-used companion volume New Patterns for Worship, it offers a theological and pastoral introduction to baptism today and outlines the structures of baptism services within and without Holy Communion, at a Service of the Word, or as part of Morning or Evening Prayer.
An extensive resource section offers material for each part of the baptism service from the opening greeting to the sending out, with additional prayers, readings and introductions for each season of the liturgical year and with explanatory notes throughout.
A set of complete sample services and examples of baptismal services in a range of different scenarios illustrates the versatility of the material provided, and offers inspiring ideas for bringing together words and actions, symbols and signs, music and movement to enrich pastoral practice and deepen Christian formation.