The official dress for the Priest is a surplice and a stole.
It is the custom of some Churches to use a shell for pouring water on the child; and it ensures the application of sufficient water. It is convenient, besides adding to the dignity of the Sacrament, that when it is ministered according to the rubric at Morning or Evening Prayer, the Priest should be attended to the font by two or more of the choir, who will hand him the shell, or napkin, or hold the book when required.
147. If they answer, No: Then shall the Priest proceed as followeth. Dearly beloved, &c.
148. Then shall the Priest say, Let us pray.
At the words 'Let us pray,' the general congregation, as well as those immediately concerned in the Baptism, should kneel, the Priest continuing to stand.
The Collects, 'Almighty and Everlasting God,' and 'Almighty and
Immortal God,' should be said by the Priest only, the people saying
'Amen.'
149. Then shall the people stand up, and the Priest shall say, Hear the words, &c.
150. After the Gospel is read, the Minister shall make this brief Exhortation upon the words of the Gospel. Beloved, ye hear, &c.
151. Then shall the Priest speak unto the Godfathers and Godmothers on this wise. Dearly beloved, &c.
152. Then shall the Priest say, O merciful God, &c.