In his world travels, Pope Saint John Paul II often asked Catholics, “What have you done with your Baptism?” This question has lingered in our lives ever since; along with a further question, “What have you done with the call and gifts of the Holy Spirit, given to us through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist?” The United States Bishops remind us, “Jesus Christ sends that same Spirit upon everyone who is baptized in his name. For we have all gone down into the water with Christ and have all been anointed as disciples to bring Good News. We have all received his Spirit. This is not a Spirit of timidity or fear, but a bold Spirit of life, truth, joy, and grace.” (Go and Make Disciples, 67)
A. Let’s begin with a little digging into the story of your own baptism.
- How old were you when you were baptized? Do you know your Baptismal date?
or the church, city/town, state, and or country where you were baptized? - What are three things you know, or have been told about your Baptismal day by your parents, Godparents, relatives, who were present? Therese’s godparents were Uncle Norman and cousin Lois Champagne. For John, they were his siblings, Norman and Shirley.
- Do you have keepsakes of your Baptism (i.e. Baptismal certificate, photos, gown, candle, jewelry, or gifts)? What do these keepsakes mean for you today?
For Therese, her Baptism was both a joyous occasion and a time to ask for God’s healing of a birth defect. And John remembers showing our grandson his white Baptismal gown, which we still have. Nolan’s eyes bugged out and he whispered, “That’s a dress!” Although we have had to do some hunting for Baptismal dates.
B. Pray about the Baptism of Jesus by St. John in Lk. 3:3-6 and 3:21-22. What would it be like to go back in time and enter into this event? Who would you be? What would you see, hear and feel? and
John [said], “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire…
When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 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.” (NRSV)
C. What does your Baptism mean today? What does your encounter with Father, Son and Holy Spirit look like now? Is it growing or in need of resuscitation? Your answer can become the underpinnings of a witness about your spiritual journey no matter how bumpy. Parents might also look at your memories of the Baptism(s) of your children. What did the sacramental encounter mean to you? Then consider sharing your experience in an open, non-judgmental way.
For example, when our grandchild, Elizabeth, was baptized on the Feast of the Holy Cross, the priest lifted her chin and anointed her as he prayed, “Receive the sign of the Cross on your lips”. She responded with a smile and a full-bodied baby sound. When the moment is right, Therese hopes to share the possible meanings of this exchange, with our now adult Elizabeth. Perhaps it is a hint of her/our call to bring the Good News of Jesus into the world of our everyday lives.