If possible, the immerser should give clear instructions beforehand so the candidate knows what to expect and does not react anxiously or instinctively in ways that complicate the process. While there are no specific techniques in the New Testament, these tips can help baptizers immerse people smoothly and efficiently in baptisteries or pools that require both parties to enter the water. Different instructions may be appropriate for special cases—such as when the prospect uses a wheelchair or has a disability—or when immersing people in smaller bodies of water, such as troughs or tubs, or larger bodies of water, such as ponds or rivers.
Suggested Instructions to Candidates
Before entering the water, the immerser should give the candidate a few basic instructions to reduce the likelihood of common complications. First, “Keep your feet together.” This helps prevent reflexive kicking or spreading the legs when balance begins to shift. Second, “Hold your nose with one hand and hold that wrist with the other hand.” This keeps the arms from flailing and helps keep water out of the nose and mouth. Third, “Bend your knees as if you are trying to sit straight down.” This posture makes the backward-and-upward motion smooth and controlled.
It is often helpful to tell candidates that they do not need to help with the immersion. In most cases, the easiest approach is for the candidate simply to follow the instructions, remain relaxed, and allow the immerser to guide the movement down into the water and back up again. When the candidate tries to assist by twisting, pulling, stepping, or pushing, the immersion usually becomes more cumbersome.
The Immerser’s Technique
There is no need to lift the prospect, so the person’s size is less of a factor than one might think. Because the water provides buoyancy, the immerser can usually guide even a large person down into the water and back up again without difficulty, provided both parties follow the instructions outlined here and remain relaxed. A rolling or rocking motion is usually the simplest method. With the candidate’s feet together, hands in place, and knees bent as if seated, the immerser can guide the person backward into the water and then help them back up in one controlled motion. The immerser should remain focused on maintaining firm support of the upper body and controlling the descent and return motion. When done properly, this method makes it unlikely that an extremity will remain above the water while the rest of the body is immersed.
The Role of Observers
When one or more observers are present, they should watch the immersion carefully. Because the immerser’s attention is naturally focused on the candidate’s upper body and overall control, observers can play an important role by monitoring the extremities and confirming that the candidate’s entire body is simultaneously submerged in the water (Rom 6:4). Observers should also stand ready to assist the immerser and the person being immersed into and out of the water.
Equipment
For the immerser: If the immerser wears waders, it is wise either to remove a long-sleeved outer shirt or to roll the sleeves up at least to the elbow. Tucking one’s trouser legs into the socks before putting on the waders helps prevent the pants from riding upward. With the rolling method described above, there is less risk of water getting into the waders. However, if the immerser bends too sharply, water can enter the waders at the chest and soak the clothing underneath.
For the immersed: Baptismal garments are not essential, but they are often supplied so the person can preserve dry clothing. If garments are provided, it is wise to have a range of sizes available. For women, appropriate gender-specific garments and supplies should be available, including suitable undergarments and a swimmer’s cap. Towels should be readily available. It is helpful for a bystander to have a towel ready so that newly baptized people can wipe their faces immediately after emerging from the water and then dry off.
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