The rediscovery of the baptismal font in the liturgy

Abstract

In most parish churches baptisms are celebrated in the chancel area, generally using a bowl or a kind of movable baptismal font. Some parishes placed a permanent baptismal font in this area. The reasons may be of a practical nature, with everything being at hand on the presbytery. They may also have wanted to highlight the importance of the Word and the sacraments because the rites of initiation begin with the proclamation of the Word, proceed to the water of baptism and on to the altar. This dissertation will examine recent church documents to see where the baptismal font can best be located. One of the options is to revert to the former practice of celebrating baptisms at the entrance of our churches; after all baptism is the sacrament of entrance to the church. Other options are a special area within the main section of the church or, following earlier practices, a separate baptistery. This dissertation will also study the traditional symbolism attached to the baptismal font. It is a symbol of both tomb and womb; its power is the power of the triumphant Cross; and baptism sets the Christian on the path to the life that will never end, the 'eighth day' of eternity. This study will help establish a number of criteria which will be of help in the appreciation or renovation of existing baptismal fonts, if not in the design of new ones as well.