My daughter & her Godparents on her baptism day.
“The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us.
To those who accepted Him, He gave power to become
children of God.”
When my daughter
was born, I wanted her to be baptized but was still away from the Church. My
mother-in-law invited us to her Protestant Church, and we met with the pastor
to make arrangements. He asked why we wanted our child baptized, and in reply,
I mentioned the cleansing of original sin. I was surprised when he responded
that baptism was simply a sign of the child being welcomed into the Christian
community. After a somewhat uncomfortable conversation, we did go forward with
the baptism. Despite the misunderstandings, God accepted His new little
daughter with joy. After her baptism, we returned home to see a huge double
rainbow arched over our house.
Since then, I’ve
learned that, although my daughter’s baptism was valid, the pastor’s view of
baptism was mistaken. Baptism indelibly changes our very being, sanctifies us,
and washes away original sin. By our baptism, we are filled with the Holy
Spirit and we become the beloved children of God. The beautiful thing about
infant baptism is that from the very beginning we are adopted into God’s
family. Our parents and Godparents promise to guide us and teach us the
Catholic faith. As we grow up, the graces and gifts of baptism remain with us,
helping us to grow in our faith and eventually take responsibility for our
baptismal promises.
What an
incredible gift to give to your child! Parents, don’t delay; if you have
questions, ask, and the Church will help you understand this beautiful
Sacrament. Praise God for His mercy in becoming man, so that we, too, have the
power to become children of God.
My son and his Godparents on his baptism day.
Readings for Jan. 15th, Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Is 49:3, 5-6 - Psalm Ps 40 - 1 Cor 1:1-3 - Jn 1:29-34
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