6. He who was judged sincere in his desire, was received by the bishop into the number of _Catechumens_. These were not only present at the ♦public exposition of scripture (for so might the _Infidels_ themselves) but had _Catechists_ appointed for them, whose office it was, to instruct them severally in the _first_ principles of Christianity, and to watch over them continually, that their practice might be answerable thereto. The common time for being a _catechumen_ was two years: but it might be either longer or shorter. It was always so long, till the person appeared to be changed in heart and life. The names of those who were judged to be thus changed, were given in at the beginning of _Lent_. And these, as well as the faithful, spent that solemn time, in watching, fasting and prayer. In the mean while they were instructed in the creed, and the mysteries of the Christian faith: as to their progress wherein they were frequently examined in the church, before the congregation. ♦ “publick” replaced with “public” for consistency 7. Toward the end of _Lent_ they were taught the _Lord’s prayer_, and instructed in the nature of the sacraments, and having been thus prepared, they were baptized on _Easter-Eve_, that they might rise again with Christ: or on the eve of _Pentecost_, that they might be ready to receive the Holy Ghost. But though these were the stated times of baptism, even till the _tenth_ age; yet they who were in danger of death were baptized at any time: as in case of open persecution. 8. The day of baptism being come, the _Catechumen_ was brought to the baptistery. This was at first near the church, or in the church porch: afterwards in the church itself. Here, after he had renounced the devil and all his works, he was questioned concerning the faith, and concerning his purpose of leading a Christian life. To which questions he gave distinct answers. He was then immerged in the consecrated water, _three_ times; at the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. At his coming out of the water, a white garment was given him, for a token of the innocence which was now given him, and which he was to take care to preserve without spot unto his life’s end. When the persons baptized were infants, their sureties or sponsors (as _Tertullian_ calls them) answered for them. Immediately after baptism they were presented to the bishop to be confirmed, by prayer and imposition of hands; and for a long time after they were instructed and assisted, as by the priest, so by those who had witnessed for them, till they were throughly perfect in the faith, and fully prepared for every good work. CHAPTER IV. _Of their prayer and study of the scriptures._