Opening Prayer
Gospel
15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah. 16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with[a] water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit and fire.
21 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
Discussion
Where was Jesus baptized?
What sign appeared so that John and all the people knew that Jesus was the son of God?
Jesus was baptized in order to receive the Holy Spirit for his work of teaching and healing, which was about to begin, and so that everyone would know that he was the son of God. By his baptism, Jesus showed the people a way to begin again that they could grow in goodness.
Talk to your children about their baptisms ( if they haven’t been baptized, talk about yours). Ask them to try and name the important parts of the baptismal ceremony?
Here is a list to discuss and help you :)
–Water- water is poured over the baby/person’s head three times to represent the rebirth of the person by water and the Holy Spirit, and the washing away of the original sin of Adam and Eve.
Anointed with Holy oil ( called “chrism”) – the oil is used as a sign that God’s spirit is making this person special, a member of God’s family who shares in everlasting life.
White garment – person is clothed in a white garment as a symbol of its purity as a child of God.
Baptismal candle- parents or godparents given a lighted candle on behalf of the child, for they have received the light of Christ and the flame of faith burn in their hearts.
Promises– promises are made on behalf of the child by godparents and parents to obey God’s rules and to lead a Christian life.
Closing Prayer
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
Dear Jesus,
Accept our sign of the cross as our prayer to you.
It reminds us that through our baptism, we belong to you.
Let all who are baptized, walk together in the light of Christ.
AMEN
Activities
Draw a picture of your own baptism ( ask your parents to see pictures if there are any).
Colour picture of Jesus being baptized.