“The Services of Initiation”, a new book release by Antiochian house of Studies

The Antiochian House of Studies (AHOS) is thrilled to announce the release of the second revised edition of The Services of Initiation, authored by V. Rev. Michel Najim and V. Rev. Patrick B. O’Grady. This comprehensive liturgical service book is a landmark resource for clergy, catechists, and laypersons in the Orthodox-Catholic Church, offering a complete and authorized guide to the sacred Mystery of Christian initiation.

This edition has been meticulously revised and expanded to meet the needs of modern celebrants while remaining deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of the Church. Whether you are preparing for the Baptism of infants, guiding adult converts, or seeking to deepen your understanding of the sacramental life, this book is an indispensable tool for your ministry.

Purpose and Significance

The book aims to address the spiritual needs of both infant, adult and converts, offering clear and detailed instructions for the celebration of Baptism and Chrismation. It restores the ancient practice of group Baptism for adults while providing practical guidance for the Baptism of infants. The volume also includes prayers and services for special circumstances, such as the reception of heterodox Christians, the restoration of lapsed Orthodox, and prayers for women after childbirth.

One of the key features of this edition is its improved layout, which eliminates confusion by presenting each service in full rather than using dual columns for variations. This makes the book more user-friendly for celebrants. Additionally, the appendices have been expanded to include scholarly insights, critical Greek texts, and practical instructions for integrating Baptism into the Divine Liturgy during major feasts like Pascha and Theophany.

Content Overview

The book is divided into two main sections: Services Which Precede Holy Baptism and The Holy Mysteries (Sacraments): Baptism and Chrismation. It also includes extensive appendices and a bibliography for further study. Below is the detailed table of contents:

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Table of Contents

Services Which Precede Holy Baptism

• Prayers for a Woman after Childbirth
• Introductory Prayers
• Service on the First Day
• Service on the Eighth Day
• Service of Churching
• Prayer after Miscarriage

The Holy Mysteries (Sacraments): Baptism and Chrismation

• Service of Baptism for Infants
• Service of Baptism for Adults
• Services for Reception of Converts
• Service of Restoration of the Lapsed

Appendices

• Appendix A: Explanatory Notes on Prayers for Mother and Child
• Appendix B: Celebration of Baptism with Divine Liturgy
  • In the Paschal Vigil (Holy Saturday)
  • On the Eve of Theophany
  • On a Feast Day
• Appendix C: Baptism in a Natural Body of Water
• Appendix D: Pre-baptismals on Holy Friday
  • Ancient Apotaxis and Syntaxis
• Appendix E: Short Order of Prayer for Former Apostates (as found in Jacob Goar)

Bibliography

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Why This Book Matters

The Services of Initiation is more than just a liturgical manual; it is a spiritual guide that connects the modern faithful to the ancient traditions of the Orthodox-Catholic Church. By providing clear rubrics, scholarly insights, and practical adaptations, this book ensures that the sacred Mysteries of Baptism and Chrismation are celebrated with reverence and authenticity. AHOS is proud to present this second revised edition, authored by V. Rev. Michel Najim and V. Rev. Patrick B. O’Grady, whose dedication and expertise have made this invaluable resource possible. Whether you are a priest, deacon, or layperson, this volume is an invaluable resource for understanding and participating in the sacramental life of the Church.

Ordering Information

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It worth mentioning that this book is one of many others released by AHOS, For more information

AHOS Publications

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