In fact the work itself was discovered only at the end of the last century. The place of origin of the little book was probably Syria, though Egypt is not entirely out of question because of its popularity there. It was written some years before the end of the first century. This is indicated by the makeup of the Church when it was written. It is not impossible that some of the materials of the work derive from the apostles and that several older pieces were brought together in its composition.
Baptism is by immersion although infusion is valid in case of necessity.
The form of baptism is trinitarian. Wednesday and Friday are days to fast and the Lord's prayer is to be said thrice daily. Some have referred this prayer to the Agape but without compelling reason. A recently discovered fragment of doubtful authenticity adds a prayer for the consecration of oil used in baptism and confirmation after the Eucharistic prayer. The Eucharist is a sacrifice and is to be preceded by a confession of sins, as is Sunday worship.