Baptism of Baby Constantin - August 16, 2009

In the first four pictures we see Constantin received as a catechumen, the first stage of Christian initiation. This took place on August 1. At this service he was signed with the sign of the Cross. Exorcisms were pronounced, invoking the Holy Name of Jesus to deliver him from any influence of the Devil. His sponsors, Andrew and Melinda, in his name renounced the Devil and all his works, and united him to Christ.

The Baptism took place before the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, August 23. Father Paul first blessed the water, identifying it with the River Jordan in which Our Lord was baptized.

Constantin was first anointed with olive oil; this is the anointing for burial, for so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death (Romans 6:3).

Then he was immersed three times with the words, The servant of God Constantin is baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Then a white garment was put on him, as he has put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him (Col. 3:9-10).

Then he was Chrismated, anointed with special oil blessed by the Bishop, as the Seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit, just as Our Lord was anointed as Messiah (anointed one) by the Holy Spirit at His Baptism (cf St. Luke 4:18).

He was then given a candle and a cross, and led in a procession three times around the font as we sang, As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27).

Then we continued with the Divine Liturgy and he received Holy Communion for the first time.