Reworking the baptistry area

The baptistry area at the entrance to the church is being reworked. It is a general custom to have the Paschal Candle reside near the Font outside of Easter. To provide a simple complement to the candle's stand, a new simple stand for the container of consecrated water will shortly be constructed. The new bowl for the Font is presently residing on a temporary table until the new stand is completed. The old font is taking on a new role as part of the display of plants on the landing of the parish hall's front staircase. Symbolism: In Easter, the Paschal Candle, a principal liturgical symbol of the risen Christ, presides over the gathered assembly. Outside of Easter, as we enter the church we are greeted by the Paschal Candle standing at the Font filled with consecrated water, a reminder that in Baptism we are buried with Christ in death and raised to new life with Christ in the power of the resurrection. As we leave the church, we pass the Paschal Candle, a reminder that we are to carry on Christ's reconciling ministry in the world, the ministry to which we are ordained in Baptism. On entering and leaving the church, it is customary to anoint vourself with the consecrated water as a reminder of your Baptism and call to ministry in Baptism. As you do this, you may say silently to yourself, "(Your name): remember your Baptism."