'The similarities between Infant and Adult Baptism outweigh the differences'.

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‘The similarities between Infant and Adult Baptism outweigh the differences’.

Many people have questioned whether or not the similarities between infant and adult baptism actually outweigh the differences.  In my opinion there are more differences than similarities between infant and adult baptism.  Below I have outlined the differences and similarities between the two.

One similarity between infant and adult baptism is that water is used in both services.  However the difference comes in the blessing of water.  In infant baptism the priest blesses the baptismal water with a prayer and breathes on the water in the shape of a cross.  But in adult baptism the water in which the adult is immersed is not blessed.

        The places in which adults and infants are baptised are also different.  Infant Baptism takes place at the Font, (which is in an eastwardly direction- symbolising resurrection).  Adult Baptism takes place in a pool.

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The difference in shape and size also means that the form in which the baptismal water is used is different.  At the Font either the baby’s body (not head) is submerged into the water or the water is poured over the baby’s head.  However in adult baptism the candidate is totally immersed beneath the water.  This signifies that the candidate dies to their old, sinful life and is buried with Jesus.

        The significance of having the water poured over the baby is that the baby has been resurrected to share a new life with Jesus.  The resurrection also plays an ...

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