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We enter into the Christian life through the water of baptism, a symbol of acceptance and of repentance, available to all in their parish church. St Mary Redcliffe possesses three fonts dating from different periods. The oldest stands at the west end due to an ancient tradition that those to be baptised gather here before entering the main part of the church and their new life as Christians. Through baptism they have turned away from their old world before entering into a new one where Jesus Christ is Lord. A carved dove, which was once part of the 18th century pulpit, hangs above this font as a symbol of the Holy Spirit. The other fonts stand in St John's Chapel, one carved out of the marble by Thomas Paty for the early remodelling of the church and the other, dating from the 15th century, one of the last surviving fragments of St John's Bedminster, the mother church of St Mary Redcliffe.

A large candle, called the Pascal Candle, stands by the font. This is blessed and lit at a vigil service on the eve of Easter Sunday and stands at the High Altar during the 40 days of Easter.Its light represents the light of Jesus Christ which death failed to extinguish. From its flame a candle is lit at baptism and given to the newly baptised reminding them that, through their baptism, they will also share the resurrection of Jesus.

The west window depicts both Mary surrounded by scenes from the childhood of Jesus and Jesus enthroned among the angels

Gathering around the Altar to celebrate the Eucharist, all play an equal part in the service, as all share in the meal of bread and wine

 

For over 800 years the congregation of St Mary Redcliffe have been gathering around the Altar as the priest leads them in the celebration of the Eucharist. This service commemorates the Last Supper at which Jesus gave thanks, then offered and shared the bread and wine, his body and blood, with his disciples. The Altar is dressed with the finest materials; the richly embroidered frontal and the priceless sacred vessels beautifully crafted in silver and gold are fitting signs of devotion to God at his table where the living Christ is amongst his people.