Scrutiny

Scrutiny, the inquiry into the faith and manners of candidates for baptism. It was made in the presence of the congregation on seven days the last being Wednesday before Passion-Sunday. The name of each candidate was called; then the deacon bade him prostrate himself five times and rise, in memory of the five wounds of Christ. The sign of the cross was made on his forehead by the sponsor and acolyte; lastly, he was sprinkled with ashes. The custom died out in 860.