This is a modern custom, or perhaps an ancient custom reinvented. It is, in a sense, a substitute for celebrating Holy Baptism: when a local church has no baptisms to celebrate at the Easter Vigil (or other times of the year) the congregation may instead be reminded of their baptismal vows through this rite of remembrance and renewal. In effect, the daily recitation of the Confession of Sin and the Apostles’ Creed is itself a renewal of one’s baptismal vows, and the celebration of Holy Communion is also a celebration of the baptismal life to which all Christians are called. Nevertheless, it is instructive for the people to return to the explicit words of the baptismal vows from time to time. This rite is therefore required at the Easter Vigil when there are no Baptisms to be administered, and recommended for the other traditional baptismal occasions: Epiphany I (Baptism of our Lord), the Day of Pentecost, and All Saints’ Day (or Sunday). The Rector or Vicar may, however, appoint this rite at any occasion appropriate for the congregation.

At the Easter Vigil, this rite is used between the Service of Lessons and the Easter Acclamation.

On other occasions, this rite is used after the Sermon in the place of the Nicene Creed.