The Baptism of the Lord

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The Christmas Season concludes at the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Let us, for a moment, reflect upon that time that we  received  the Sacrament of Baptism.  You are one of the 1 billion people, who are baptized, out of the  total number of 6 billion people in the world. Is there something special or unique to be among the few baptized Christians?

First and foremost, the catechism of the Catholic Church taught us that baptism removes from us the stain of original sin, as well as, all personal sins. Secondly, our baptism gives us the privilege to be called sons and  daughters of God.  Thirdly, we call God our Father and, thereby, making us co-heirs of His Kingdom.  And lastly, the grace of the Holy Spirit remains always in us, sanctifying and transforming us, each and every day.

The words of St. Paul, “Take on Jesus Christ”, instructs us to continue to be open to where the Holy Spirit leads us. It also tells us to always seek and do God’s will every single day. As baptized Christians, we are to make God known  around us, of His love, by our life, proclaiming the Good News of salvation, following Jesus faithfully, and by taking up our Cross.

The New Year leads us to new ways and, possibly, new sets of resolutions. What are your resolutions? Challenge yourself to commit to them. It is my hope and prayer that we will grow ever stronger to our baptismal promise. Ever mindful of this, as Number 1, just as this Twenty Twenty ONE.

With Respect and Love, 

Fr. Thuong Hoai Nguyen