For all Sacraments and additional information go to: http://www.catholicaustralia.com.au/the-sacraments/christian-initiation
Looking for good resources for Baptismal preparations? Be it educators that need resources on parenting and Baptism (like Anne Kitch’s book) or as part of a comprehensive Christian formation program (discovery series, Diocese of Texas), these picks cover a wide range of topics that speak to many needs in baptismal preparation. The baptismal resources are also suggestions that include electronic and print formats.
Print Picks
Journey into Baptism: A Guidebook for an Adult Seeking Baptism or the Parents or Godparents or Sponsors of a Person being Presented for Baptism by Helen Barron, Illustrated by Victoria Bergesen Candle Press, 2015 If you are looking for a book to explore baptism with individuals or groups, check out Journey into Baptism. This book, which is also available digitally from Candle Press, would be helpful for parents and godparents, confirmands, and those seeking baptism for themselves. The format also makes it useful for group study for those who are new to the Episcopal Church. This gentle book, with lovely illustrations by Victoria Bergesen, defines the terminology and the theology about baptism, without being pedantic or overbearing. After a brief introduction about what baptism is and isn’t, the book follows the order of the baptismal service from the Book of Common Prayer, pages 299-307.
Taking the Plunge: Baptism and Parenting By Anne E. Kitch Morehouse Publishing, 2006 Taking the Plunge is for parents and godparents who have presented a child for baptism and are asking, “Now what? I’ve just made all these promises—how do I keep them? How do I raise a child in the Christian faith? What does it mean to raise a child to the full stature of Christ?” This book explores these questions and provides guidance in how to live out the promises that are made.
Preparing for Baptism in the Episcopal Church By Anne E. Kitch Morehouse Publishing, July 2015 This accessible resource is for families who seek to have an infant or child baptized, or for an adult who has not been affiliated previously with a faith tradition and desires to be baptized. Many new parents do not have an understanding of the service of Holy Baptism in The Episcopal Church, what is “required” of them as a parent, or how to prepare their child to receive the sacrament, including what it implies for the child’s future formation and their family’s involvement in living a Christian life. This book will guide both parents and adults seeking baptism into a faithful life within a church community.
Water of Baptism, Water for Life : An Activity Book ByAnne E. Kitch; Illustrated by Shelley Dieterichs. Morehouse Publishing, 2012 Water for Life is an illustrated activity book for 8-11 year olds (although adults will also find it informative) and families. It can be used in an educational or devotional setting at home, church, or school. Author Anne Kitch shows how water connects all physical and spiritual life. Besides being essential for life, water is the visible sign of Baptism, which calls us to serve others in the world. Through activities and readings, children learn that insuring that all have access to clean water is an act of justice, love, respect and a core value of what it means to be a Christian.
Entering the Household of God: Taking Baptism Seriously in a Post-Christian Society By Claudia A. Dickson Church Publishing, Inc., 2002 Enter the Household of God includes a basic history of baptism followed by suggested plans for study sessions for parents, godparents, candidates, or individuals preparing to renew their baptismal vows. Claudia Dickson explores the gifts and responsibilities that are both implicit and explicit in the rite of baptism. Throughout the book are cross references to the Service of Holy Baptism in The Book of Common Prayer.
Electronic Resources
Pro/Claim: http://www.diocal.org/discipleship/adults/proclaim A five-session video-based curriculum created by the Diocese of California. It is intended participants explore the radical, life-changing promises we make at baptism. It can be used in baptismal preparation or reaffirmation with adults and mature teens.
Your Baptism Day: http://www.vibrantfaithathome.org/item/your-baptism-day A simple at-home lesson plan from the Vibrant Faith at Home collection. It is intended to help young families commemorate the day of a child’s baptism.
The Discovery Series: http://www.epicenter.org/discovery A comprehensive Christian formation program created by the Diocese of Texas. It explores most aspects of the Christian life and makes use of a companion DVD for video segments. Read our review here.
Baptism in Word, Rituals, and Symbols: http://www.intergenerationalfaith.com/sacraments–rituals.html An intergenerational program from LifelongFaith Associates. It helps the community explore and enrich their understanding of the sacrament. Some slight adaptation may be required for use in Episcopal contexts.
Heavenly Father, We thank you that by water and the Holy Spirit you have bestowed upon these your servants the forgiveness of sin, and have raised them to the new life of grace. Sustain them, O Lord, in your Holy Spirit. Give them an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works. Amen. Book of Common Prayer 1979, page 308