Chapter 56

1Then let them gather in the church, and after baptism let the bishop lay a hand on them and invoke over them in this way:

2“O Lord God, who through your beloved Son Jesus Christ filled your holy apostles with the Holy Spirit, and through the Spirit permitted your blessed prophets to speak; who counted these your servants worthy to be counted worthy in your Christ of forgiveness of sins through the washing of rebirth, and cleansed them from all the mist of error and the darkness of unbelief: Make them worthy to be filled with your Holy Spirit. Through your love for humanity, bestow your grace upon them, so that they may serve you according to your will in truth, O God, and may keep your commandments in holiness. May they always cultivate the things that are your will and enter your eternal dwellings, through you and through your beloved Son Jesus Christ, through whom praise and might be to you with the Holy Spirit forever and ever.”

3Likewise, pouring the oil and placing a hand on the person’s head, let him say, “With anointing I anoint you in God Almighty, in Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Spirit, so that you may be his soldier, having perfect faith and being a vessel pleasing to him.”

4Sealing him on the forehead, let him give him the peace and say, “The Lord God of the meek be with you.” Let the one who has been sealed answer, “And with your spirit.” Let this be done with each person individually.