Archbishop baptises

I was with the archbishop last Wednesday for the renewal of priestly vows in a service that included foot washing (servant ministry) as well as the blessing of oils (some for baptisms).

Worshippers take outdoor baptism

The Archbishop of York has immersed four people in a pool of water during open-air Easter baptisms.

Archbishop John Sentamu conducted the ceremony in a specially erected pool in a service watched by 300 people.

The Archbishop stood knee deep in water and immersed each of the adults outside the York church St Michael-le-Belfrey.

The four members of the congregation were greeted with applause and cheered before being offered towels when they emerged from the inflatable pool.

Church officials said the service symbolised death by drowning as the adults went under the water. They were then re-united with Jesus Christ in his resurrection when they emerged.
Dr Sentamu said: "It's a matter of life and death - that serious."

One of those baptised and confirmed at the Easter morning service was 19-year-old Emily Swiatek, from Derby.
"It's been fantastic," she said.
"It's an amazing congregation here, I felt so welcomed into the church.
"I think the message is, 'Don't be ashamed of your faith, don't be ashamed of being a Christian, or any other religion.' Show what you are and do it publicly."

This was last year but on Sunday he was baptising in the open air again in York .

Priests extend the ministry

The other oils are for anointing the sick and for ordaining the clergy. Supplies are used by the clergy, as well as the archbishop, throughout the year and throughout the diocese so linking him with every ministry in which they are used.

The risen Christ said "Lo, I am with you always" i.e. in many ways but especially in preaching the word and administering the sacraments.