Anglican baptism as a guest

01 Before the day

Anglican and Episcopal baptisms are normally celebrated at the principal Sunday Eucharist of the parish, often timed to one of the major feast days the 1979 BCP designates as especially appropriate (the Easter Vigil, Pentecost, All Saints' Day, or the Baptism of Our Lord). Guests are attending the regular Sunday morning service with a baptism incorporated after the sermon. The full service typically runs 75 to 90 minutes.

02 Attire

Church-formal to smart-casual: a jacket and tie for men or a sport coat with chinos; a dress, skirt, or smart trousers for women. Anglican and Episcopal Sunday services tend toward smart attire; the formality varies by parish.

03 The gift

A small gift is conventional. Common Anglican and Episcopal baptism gifts include a children's Bible, a baptismal cross or medal, a children's prayer book, or a more secular gift for the child. Godparents and close family typically give more substantial gifts.

04 At the ceremony

Guests typically arrive 15 minutes before the service begins. Seating is normally open; the family is seated in the front pews.

The service proceeds as a normal Sunday Eucharist through the readings, the sermon, and the prayers. The baptism then takes place at the font, with the candidate(s) presented by the parents and sponsors. The Baptismal Covenant, a series of questions and answers affirming the Christian faith, is renewed by the candidates, sponsors, and the gathered congregation together. The Thanksgiving over the Water and the baptism itself follow. The priest may mark the newly baptized with chrism.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist then proceeds as in a normal Sunday service. Guests stand, sit, and kneel with the congregation; the printed service leaflet typically guides the flow.

05 Communion

Most TEC and many ACNA parishes practice open communion, inviting all baptized Christians to the altar regardless of denominational background. The invitation is extended explicitly by the priest before Communion. Non-Christian guests and guests who prefer not to receive may remain in the pew or come forward with arms crossed for a blessing. Both are acceptable.

06 The reception

Many parishes host a coffee hour after the Sunday service; the family is typically present at the coffee hour and may also host a private family meal afterward. The reception is normally informal and not formally part of the baptism.