Audio Text
206.1 Litany The service continues after the Gospel and homily. The priest gives the deacon the blessing and returns to the tetrapod or font and the deacon takes his customary place on the Ambon and prays the proscribed litany. After the litany, the deacon returns to the tetrapod or font. The priest returns to the Holy Table.
206.2 Communion and Dismissal The deacon intones, “Let us be attentive”. All recite the communion prayer and sing,” Receive the body of Christ etc.” The Godparents bring the newly baptized before the Ambon as the priest comes through the Royal doors to give communion to the newly baptized. All return to the tetrapod for the dismissal followed by “God grant many years”.
207.1 Blessing of the Mother If the mother of the newly baptized child wishes to receive the blessing for “One who has given birth”, , the priest, she, and the deacon proceed to the icon of the Mother of God at the iconostasis. The deacon intones, “Let us pray to the Lord”, and intones it again after the first prayer ends. The deacon should ensure that the holy water is available, as the priest will need it after completing the final prayer. The deacon ensures the holy water is available for the blessing at the end of the last prayer. After this, it is time for smiles and pictures
Notes
Before the Baptism begins, ask the mother if she wishes to have the Blessing for One Who Has Given Birth. If she has received this blessing previously, there is no prohibition for receiving it again after the Baptism. It is customary for the mother to wear a veil/head covering while kneeling at the icon of the Mother of God. Additionally, ensure the priest has the text of the prayer available. Not all books have this prayer included with the Baptism texts. In a mixed setting, be sure to ask what language will be used.