Ego Te Baptizo: The Church's Liturgy as Instrument of the Baptizing God

Abstract

The key component to the rite of holy baptism is the sacrament itself: the washing with water combined with the word, which offers the forgiveness of sins. Throughout the centuries after Christ, other aspects surrounding the rite of baptism have changed, such as pre- and post-baptism liturgy and spiritual instruction. During the Reformation, Luther’s changes in the baptismal rite brought back a focus on the sacrament itself, rather than on the traditions. Today we remember this history, as we use past traditions and form new ones, to help center our focus on the work being done by the Holy Spirit in this sacred washing.