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Sunday, 16 April 2006, 09:06 GMT 10:06 UK

Worshippers take outdoor baptism

Dr John Sentamu conducts the baptism The Archbishop of York has immersed four people in a pool of water during open-air Easter baptisms.

Archbishop John Sentamu conducted the ceremony in a specially erected pool in a service watched by 300 people.

The Archbishop stood knee deep in water and immersed each of the adults outside the York church St Michael-le-Belfrey.

The four members of the congregation were greeted with applause and cheered before being offered towels when they emerged from the inflatable pool.

Church officials said the service symbolised death by drowning as the adults went under the water.

'Amazing congregation'

They were then re-united with Jesus Christ in his resurrection when they emerged.

Dr Sentamu said: "It's a matter of life and death - that serious."

One of those baptised and confirmed at the Easter morning service was 19-year-old Emily Swiatek, from Derby.

"It's been fantastic," she said.

"It's an amazing congregation here, I felt so welcomed into the church.

"I think the message is, 'Don't be ashamed of your faith, don't be ashamed of being a Christian, or any other religion.' Show what you are and do it publicly."



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Related to this story:
Views on respect: Archbishop of York (09 Jan 06 |  UK )
Profile: Archbishop John Sentamu (30 Nov 05 |  UK )

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