The Sacrament of Baptism: Theological Studies and Lectures

This book serves as a comprehensive theological reference on the Sacrament of Baptism within the Coptic Orthodox Church, comprising studies and lectures delivered by His Grace Anba Abram, Bishop of Fayoum and Abbot of the Archangel Gabriel Monastery at Naqlun. The text explores Baptism as the pillar of the Church and the essential door to receiving the other seven ecclesiastical sacraments. It examines biblical evidence and historical symbols of Baptism in the Old Testament, such as Noah’s Ark, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the rite of circumcision, leading to the institution of the sacrament in the New Testament by Jesus Christ. The book details the liturgical aspects of Baptism, including triple immersion, anointing with Holy Myron, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the new birth. Anba Abram provides detailed theological responses to objections regarding the efficacy of sacraments and infant baptism, emphasizing the necessity of Baptism for salvation, divine adoption, and the for