In baptism we use the gift of water,
which you have made a rich symbol
of the grace you give us in this sacrament.

At the very dawn of creation
your Spirit breathed on the waters,
making them the wellspring of all holiness

The waters of the great flood
you made a sign of the waters of baptism 
that make an end of sin
and a new beginning of goodness.

Through the waters of the Red Sea
you led Israel out of slavery
to be an image of God's holy people,
set free from sin by baptism. 

In the waters of the Jordan
your Son was baptized by John
and anointed with the Spirit.

Your Son willed that water and blood 
should flow from his side
as he hung upon the cross. 

After his resurrection he told his disciples:
"Go out and teach all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit" 

Father, look now with love upon your Church
and unseal for it the fountain of baptism. 

By the power of the Holy Spirit
give to this water the grace of your Son,
so that in the sacrament of baptism 
all those whom you have created in your likeness 
may be cleansed from sin 
and rise to a new birth of innocence 
by water and the Holy Spirit.

Here, if this can be done conveniently, the celebrant before continuing lowers the Easter candle into the water once or three times, then holds it there until the acclamation at the end of the blessing.

We ask you, Father, with your Son
to send the Holy Spirit upon the waters of this font.

May all who are buried with Christ in the death of baptism
rise also with him to newness of life.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

All:

Amen.

If the Easter candle has been held in the water, the celebrant then raises it and the people sing the following or another suitable acclamation.

Springs of water, bless the Lord.
Give him glory and praise for ever.