The sacrament of Baptism...

I thought that since I promised to talk about each of the sacraments that I have celebrated, I would simply begin with the first sacrament and go on up the line from there. So, we begin with baptism.

I find baptisms to be such an enjoyable sacrament to celebrate for a number of reasons. First, this is an immensely joyous event for everyone present. I've never seen a baptism in which anyone present didn't want to be there (except maybe the guest of honor who just wants to sleep or eat). You have beaming parents with their tiny, little newborn. You have proud grandparents and godparents looking on. All your friends and relatives are there to share this moment with you. It is a happy time for all.

Secondly, it gives me great pleasure to bring another person into the Church and that is exactly what baptism does. When I explain the sacrament in baptism preparation class, I always point out that baptism is a rebirth. We are born into the life of Christ at baptism. The candle, the white garment, the prayers all point to Jesus and to our salvation through him.

Lastly, baptisms are a time to do more than simply bring a newborn into the Church. Often times some people present either are not Catholic or do not practice their Catholic faith. This is a good opportunity for the grace of God to enter into their life and to draw them into the Church. Gathering with those who are Catholic surrounds them with persons of the faith and hopefully instills in them a seed of that faith that will grow. This is not something I can usually witness, but I pray that it is a fruit of the baptisms I celebrate even if it is an unseen fruit.

Well, that is why I enjoy baptisms in a nutshell. Nothing mind boggling, but a joy to celebrate nonetheless. Next time I will blog on something that is miraculous, humbling and at the same time awesome: celebrating the Eucharist.

I will not be blogging tomorrow as my dad is having surgery, so keep him in your prayers. I will not be blogging on Wednesday either because of the Solemnity of the Assumption, so my next entry will be Thursday at the earliest. Until then...God bless.

posted by: crossman at 05:57 | link | comments |
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