Initial Centuries of Christianity

During the initial centuries of Christianity, it was customary to perform baptisms in the presence of men, women, and children, with all individuals being unclothed. There exists a significant number of well-documented and thorough reports regarding this practice.

According to Cyril of Jerusalem, who served as the bishop of Jerusalem from A.D. 387 to 417, there is a customary practice when entering a certain place. The first step is to take off your tunics, leaving you completely bare. This act symbolizes the imitation of Christ, who was stripped of His garments on the Cross. By being naked, Christ demonstrated His victory over the ruling authorities, fearlessly triumphing over them.

Following your baptism, you were adorned in pristine white albs, embodying the very likeness of the original Adam, who, while being unclothed in the garden, felt no shame.

Early Times

In the Eastern rites, it is important to note that the rubrics explicitly mention the possibility of conducting adult baptism in the nude.

During the early centuries of Christianity, it is indeed accurate to state that baptism rituals frequently entailed the complete submersion of men, women, and occasionally children in water. It was not uncommon for participants to undergo baptism in a state of nudity or adorned in plain white attire. This particular observance carried immense religious and symbolic significance within the early Christian community.

Symbolism of Baptism

Baptism is a central sacrament in Christianity, symbolizing purification, rebirth, and entry into the Christian faith. The immersion in water represented a cleansing of sin and the emergence of a new, redeemed person in Christ.

Modesty and Simplicity

At that time, the emphasis was on the spiritual significance of baptism rather than on elaborate clothing. Participants often wore simple, white robes or were baptized nude to symbolize their new, pure, and spiritually reborn selves.

Equality

The practice of baptizing men and women together, regardless of social or gender distinctions, emphasized the equality of all believers in the eyes of God.

Historical Accounts

Early Christian writings and accounts from church history indeed document this practice. It was considered a solemn and transformative moment in the life of a believer.

Over time, the practice of baptism evolved, and different Christian denominations developed their own customs and rituals related to baptism. While many Christian denominations still practice full-immersion baptism, the use of simple white garments or baptismal robes has become more common in modern times. The early Christian practice you mentioned reflects the historical context and the religious significance attached to baptism in those early centuries of the faith.