Dear Friends,
“Let us welcome the newly baptized.” (BCP p. 308)
We will have the opportunity many times over the next few months to welcome the newly baptized into our community. Through June, we have six baptisms that will take place in our congregation. Each time you will hear me state what an exciting day this is for our congregation. As we increase our fold, the entire church celebrates.
What does it mean to welcome the newly baptized? I believe that it starts with our commitment to these persons who have made vows to do all in our power to support them in their life in Christ. (BCP p. 303) We will be their church family in every sense in that we will lift them up in prayer, encourage their Christian formation and growth, offer support in times of need and be a listening friend as desired. When absent from our presence, we will inquire as to their well-being and when present, we will thank them for all that they offer.
These baptism services will also give us the opportunity to renew our own Baptismal Covenant. (BCP p. 304) We will be reminded of the five promises that we made or that were made on our behalf. We can assess how we are lining up in keeping our covenant and see what areas may need refreshing. All the while we will remember that in keeping these, “we will, with God’s help.” Alone we cannot possibly do it all and with God’s help we can.
Yes, this is an exciting time for our congregation and for the body of Christ. Please join me in the celebration.
Blessings,
Gini+