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Gerburts und Taufschein (Birth and Baptismal Certificate)

Gerburts und Taufschein (Birth and Baptismal Certificate)

Printer: Johann Ritter and Company (Reading, PA, 1779 - 1851)

Date: 1797
Medium: ink on paper
Dimensions:
Sheet: 16 5/8 x 13 3/16 in. (42.2 x 33.5 cm)
Credit Line:Museum Purchase
Object number: 1939.91.1

Translation
Birth and Baptismal Certificate.
To these two spouses, namely Johannes Schumann and his wedded housewife Elisabetha, née Münzen, was a daughter born into the world, the 31st day of January in the year of our Lord, 1797. This Elisabeth was born in Pikeland Township, in Chester County, in the state of Pennsylvania, in North America; and was baptized and received the name Elisabeth by Mister Voigt 1797, the 7th day of May. [She] was confirmed in the year of our Lord 1815 by Mr. Henrich Geisenheim, the 14th of May. The sponsors were the parents themselves.

[in upper left box]
When we are barely born, from the first step in life to the cool grave of the earth, is only a short-measured pace. Oh! With every moment, our strength declines. And with every year, we are all too ripe for the bier.

[in upper right box]
And who knows at which hour the final voice will awaken us; for with His mouth, God has not yet revealed this to any human. He who now tends to his house will leave the world with joy. Since surety, on the other hand, can provoke eternal death.

[in center, two columns]
I am baptized, I stand united through my baptism with my God! So I always speak with joyful mouth, in burden, in sadness, fear and need. I am baptized, for which I am glad. The joy remains with me eternally.

I am baptized, if I now die, how can the cool grave harm me? I know my fatherland and inheritance that I have in heaven with God. After my death, is for me prepared, heaven’s joy and garment of celebration.

[in lower center, two columns]
I am baptized in Your name, God Father, Son and Holy Spirit! I am counted to Your seeds,

To the people that You call holy. Oh! What happiness thus became mine! Lord, let me be worthy of it!

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