“Baptism is God's most beautiful and magnificent gift....We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God's Lordship.”
— St. Gregory of Nazianzus, Oratio 40
Can you believe that we’re already a week into 2024?! What a better way to start off the second week of the New Year than with a feast day that is all about celebrating a new life with Christ.
This week, as you settle back into your day-to-day lives, we encourage you to take some time to think about the Sacrament of Baptism.
Maybe it’s taking a few minutes this morning to renew the Baptismal Promises made at your own Baptism. Reflecting on the graces bestowed in the first Sacrament of Initiation and how they have shown up in your life. Or thinking about how your identity as a Child of God through this Sacrament will shape your goals and actions throughout the New Year.
Again, since we’re just starting out here, we want to hear from you about the content of these newsletters. Let us know what you would like to see featured each week. Music? More books? Liturgical living items or Podcasts recommendations? Drop some suggestions in the comments about what you want to see or even saint recommendations for future newsletters!
Saints and Feasts this Week
January 8 — The Baptism of the Lord
The Bible and Baptism: The Fountain of Salvation by Fr. Isaac Augustine Morales, OP
Godparents, this one’s for you! Do you remember and celebrate your godchild’s Baptism day? Just like a birthday, make a note of the date they were baptized in your planner so that you remember to say an extra prayer or even give them a call on that day!
January 13 — St. Hilary of Poitiers
Inspiration for the Week
Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologiae, Third Part, Question 66. The Sacrament of Baptism
Christian Initiation - Louis Bouyer, Edited by Michael Heintz
Baptized in Christ: A Catholic Study of the Sacrament of Baptism for Godparents and Parents
The Baptism of Jesus — The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)
Jesus answered, Believe me, no man can enter into the kingdom of God unless birth comes to him from water, and from the Holy Spirit. What is born by natural birth is a thing of nature, what is born by spiritual birth is a thing of spirit. Do not be surprised, then, at my telling thee, You must be born anew.
John 3:5-7
Resources to Celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism
Holy Water Font for Your Home - A daily reminder of your Baptismal Promises
The Miracle Maker Short Film Movie for Kids
Free Streaming with Amazon Prime, Not a Member? Get a 30-Day Free Trial on us!
The Ultimate Guide to Catholic Baptism, Ascension Press - Great for Parents & Godparents preparing for a Baptism or anyone who wants to learn more about the symbols, purpose, and graces that come from the Sacrament.