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None but such as had received baptism and confirmation could be reckoned among the penitents. They consisted wholly of such laymembers of the church as had been separated from it by reason of their unworthy deportment, or for grosser offences, and who voluntarily submitted to the penalties inflicted upon them with a view to their readmission into the church and restoration to christian fellowship, and the privileges of communion. See Chap. XVII, on Penance.