Letter 23

From: Ambrose, Bishop of Milan To: The bishops of northern Italy Date: ~387 AD Context: A circular letter to the bishops of the Milan metropolitan province on proper baptismal practice, clarifying the rites and correcting irregularities that had crept into some local churches. Ambrose to his brothers and fellow bishops — greetings in the Lord. It has come to my attention that certain churches in our province have adopted varying practices in the administration of baptism, and I write to establish clarity where confusion has spread. The rite of baptism is not a local custom to be adapted at will. It is the sacrament by which souls are born into Christ, and its form must follow the apostolic tradition. First, on the baptismal formula: we baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit — no other formula is valid. Any baptism that omits one person of the Trinity is no baptism at all. Second, on preparation: candidates for baptism must receive proper instruction. The ancient discipline of the catechumenate [the period of instruction before baptism, typically lasting one to three years in the early Church] exists for good reason. A person who does not understand what they are professing cannot truly profess it. I have heard of churches baptizing after only days of instruction. This is reckless. Third, on the anointing and the washing of feet: these ceremonies are not optional embellishments. They are integral to the rite as we have received it. The anointing with chrism [consecrated oil] seals the gift of the Spirit. The washing of feet, which our church of Milan practices [a distinctive Milanese liturgical custom not universal in the West], reminds the newly baptized that they are called to serve. Fourth, on timing: Easter remains the proper season for baptism, except in cases of emergency. The connection between Christ's resurrection and our new birth in the font is not merely symbolic; it is the heart of the sacrament. Maintain these practices, brothers, and the unity of our churches will be strengthened by the unity of our worship.

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