baptismes] Or, baptizings. The plurall number for the singular; as sacrifices for sacrifice, Chap. 8. 22, 23. some give this reason for it, viz. because in those times many baptismes were administred at once, there being set dayes appointed for it. laying] Which is usually called confirmation, which stood, first, in examining those who had been baptized, what progresse they had made in the doctrine of Christianitie. Secondly, in praying for them, that God would continue them in the faith, and give them more grace, strengthening them by his Holy Spirit. Now when the chiefe Pastor or Pastors of the Church prayed for them, they laid their hands upon them; whence the Apostolicall constitution was called the laying on of hands. Or, understand thereby a ceremony used in the ordination of Ministers.