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Affirmation of Baptismal Faith
Affirmation of Baptismal Faith is a new rite contained in the Common Worship initiation services. It is intended for those people for have been baptised and confirmed and who want a formal way of marking either that they have returned to the practice of the Christian faith or that their faith has become meaningful to them in a new way.
Affirmation of Baptismal Faith is preceded by preparation. If it takes place in the context of a confirmation service it is presided over by the bishop. When this is not the case a parish priest may preside. The affirmation consists of the following elements:
A declaration that those involved have been baptised and wish to renew their faith.
The renunciation of the devil and all that is evil and declaration of turning to Christ from the baptism service.
An affirmation of faith using the words of the Apostles' Creed.
A threefold declaration of commitment to God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit :
'I answer the call of God my creator.
I trust in Christ Jesus as my saviour.
I seek new life from the Holy Spirit.'
A prayer by the bishop or the parish priest:
'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 your people,
in the service of your kingdom. Amen'
The laying on of hands by the bishop or the parish priest with the words:
'N, may God renew his life within you
that you may confess his name this day and for ever.'
and each candidate replying 'Amen.'
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