Baptism preparation

Margaret Wither's book The Gifts of Baptism can be used as a prepartion course for groups of parents and godparents who want to bring children for Baptism.

Through baptism we become members of God's family, the Church. Preparing to take part in this great event will include exploring some of the things that make up the baptismal service.

The book goes through the service by following the journey of a young child and his baby sister as they prepare to be baptized. Each chapter introduces and discusses the signs and symbols used, alongside some of the text and prayers. It also uses short extracts from the Bible to describe the ways that people have seen themselves as belonging to God, their creator, and the new life that Jesus promises to all who follow him.

Each chapter links progressively into the baptism service by exploring:
1. The gift of a child (Presentation)
2. The gift of light (Decision)
3. The gift of the cross (Signing with the cross)
4. The gift of water (Prayer over the water)
5. The gift of faith (Profession of faith)
6. The gift of new life (Baptism)
7. The gift of glory (Commission)
8. The gift of the Church (Welcome)
Postscript: The gift of the world (Sending out)