THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD 11TH JANUARY 2026

 The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord signifies the close of Christmastide and   celebrates a pivotal moment in Jesus’ life and ministry. John’s baptism, intended for repentance and preparation for the Messiah, gains new meaning as Jesus, the Messiah, participates. His immersion in the Jordan demonstrates his solidarity with sinners, not by endorsing sin, but by aligning himself with those seeking change and a moral reformation.

This event is also a profound revelation of the Holy Trinity, a uniquely Christian doctrine that distinguishes it from other monotheistic faiths. At Jesus’ baptism, God is revealed as one in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This manifestation confirms Jesus as the Messiah of Israel and the Son of God, with the Father’s affirming voice declaring, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

 Through his baptism, Jesus embraces his redemptive mission as the Suffering Servant and the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” This acceptance signifies his willingness to lay aside his divinity to save humanity through his passion, death, and resurrection. Our own baptisms mirror this, granting us forgiveness of sins, making us beloved children of God and members of the Church. We are called to a ministry as priests, prophets, and kings, sharing in Christ’s mission and God’s kingdom.

Just as Jesus entered into his mission, we are called to live out the mystery of our baptism through prayer, scripture, and a life of grace. By extending this grace to others, we embody our identity as beloved children of God.