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may be used in the administration of Baptism the bishop
must mix with it a few drops of the holy Oils which
were consecrated on Holy Thursday. First he puts in,
separately, a little of the Oil of catechumens and of
the holy Chrism, then taking the two phials one in
his right hand, the other in his left he pours from them
simultaneously accompanying each act with a prayer,
which explains the signification of the action performed.
Finally, the bishop, putting his hands into the font,
mixes the holy Oils with the water.
Whilst assisting at the blessing of the baptismal font
the faithful, thus reminded of their own baptism, should
be filled with sentiments of gratitude. They would do
well to renew their baptismal promises, and to pray for
the souls who are to be regenerated in these sacred
waters.
In the first centuries of Christianity, this blessing
was always followed by the BAPTISM OF THE CATECHU
MENS, and as these were often very numerous, the bishop
only baptized some of them, leaving to his priests the
duty of baptizing the rest. For a long time the custom
was maintained, at least in cathedral churches, of bap
tizing one adult on Holy Saturday during these solemn
ceremonies, but as in our days in Catholic countries, it
is very rare to find adults who have not been baptized,
it fell into disuse. We can understand however that
such a practice is quite in conformity with the spirit of
the Church.
After the blessing of the font the PROCESSION is re
formed and returns TO THE SANCTUARY, chanting the
LITANY of the saints. Arrived at the foot of the altar
the celebrant prostrates himself, whilst the rest all
kneel, and continue the chanting. Mass begins with the
singing of the Kyrie eleison which ends the litany.