Excerpt from Companion to the Font and the Pulpit

The author has long thought that a simple treatise, having for its title that placed at the head of this, and for its object the better preparation of parents and sponsors for the pious performance of their part in the solemn transaction, might be prepared somewhat after the manner of treatises for the c6m munion, not merely setting forth right views of the ordi nance, and removing prejudices, but containing some medi tations, or prayers, to be used before and after the solemn service. If a man should always examine himself before he presume to partake of the Lord's Supper, lest he should do it unwortlrily; if he should prepare himself for days he forehand, that he may come piously and joyously to that feast which is so often spread before him; surely, in relation to this solemn act, to be performed but once, there ought to be some especial previous consideration on the part of those permitted to present their children to the Lord in baptism. It may be, that a want of due preparation and proper qualifications on the part of those presenting, may not a little hinder the future efficacy of this sacrament. On the part of adults re ceiving it, previous fasting and prayer are enjoined by the Church, in order to their better observance of it; and as those who bring children to it are required to make such solemn promises in their name, and at the close of the service are so earnestly enjoined to perform a faithful part in training the baptized ones for Heaven, it is plain that they shouldnot only be sincerely pious themselves, but that their piety should be put into active exercise on this occasion, seeing that the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth so much. As circumcision may become uncircumcision, so baptism may prove a mere form, unproductive of any parti calar benefit to the recipient, through the future abuse of its privileges; and who can tell how much the neglect of those to whom the children are entrusted may contribute to this, and how far this neglect may have been promoted by the want of right views and feelings at the time of the present ment. In order to the faithful performance of our part in this transaction, it is important that we come to it in no doubtful state of mind, but verily persuaded that God favorably allow eth this charitable work, and that a blessing belongs to it if done according to his will. It is very desirable that we have a just view of those scriptures which speak of it, that we may know what is promised, and ask the same in faith, nothing wavering. Nor only this, but we should also duly understand what are the views of the Church, as set forth in her - articles and services, that we may use the same heartily and approvingly. It is very certain that different meanings have been and are ascribed to those scriptures, and those words *of the Church, which bear on this subject; nor is it to be ex pected that there should be a perfect agreement here, seeing that, in all ages, there has been such diversity of sentiment (on other parts of Divine truth. Nevertheless, it is very dec sirable to arrive at the highest attainable degree of unity. And if course it is right to seek after the same by all proper 'means.

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