This volume provides a documentary history of baptismal thought, practice, and preparations in Italy, North Africa, and Egypt from the early second through sixth century.

As one of the most influential thinkers in Christian history, St. Augustine (354–430) had a flair for teaching and meditated deeply on the mysteries of the human heart. This study examines a little-known side of his career: his work as a teacher of candidates for baptism. ln the revised edition of this seminal book, both the text and notes have been revised to better reflect the state of contemporary scholarship on Augustine, liturgical studies, and the catechumenate, both ancient and modern. This edition also includes new findings from some of the recently discovered sermons of Augustine and incorporates new perspectives from recent research on early Christian biblical interpretation, debates on the Trinity, the evolution of the liturgy, and much more. This reconstruction of Augustine’s catechumenate provides fresh perspectives on the day-to-day life of the early church and on the vibrancy and eloquence of Augustine the preacher and teacher.

A simple look at the universality of love.

A comprehensive survey of the doctrine and practice of baptism in the first five centuries of Christian history, arranged geographically within chronological periods.

Catechumens and candidates will quickly learn that Jesus Christ will be their focus throughout their journey through the catechumenate. They will learn what they need to do to become Catholic too, of course, as they discern, pray, worship, break open the Word, and try to live their daily lives as followers of Christ. Nick Wagner guides catechumens and candidates through the entire process of preparing for baptism, the Rite of Election, the Scrutinies, keeping Lent, celebrating the Triduum, baptism (or acceptance) at the Easter Vigil, and life after baptism. This is a warm and wonderful companion for parish catechumens and candidates, one they will value and treasure long after they become Catholics.

Introduction -- Augustine the Catechumen: Patterns and Narrative -- The Practices and Status of catechumeni in Augustine's Community -- Catechumens Taking the Step: The Negotiation of Baptism in Augustine's Pastoral Care -- From catechumenus to fidelis: The Lenten Preparation for Baptism in Hippo -- Councils, Preaching and the Catechumenate in Fourth- and Fifth-Century Africa -- Epilogue.