This weekend we culminate the Christmas season with the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. In the gospel story this Sunday, Jesus’ identity is revealed. Matthew says: “A voice came down from heaven, You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”  This is important because it is in the waters of Baptism that we hear God calling Jesus His “beloved Son.”  But what does that mean?

As we continue to read the gospels, we will notice that Jesus’ baptism is the beginning of His ministry. He is called to be true to His identity. He is the revelation of God’s presence in the world. In His life and ministry, we experience God as Emmanuel- God with us. God is no longer distant. He dwells within us and journeys with us.

This feast is not just a celebration of Jesus’ Baptism but also a reminder of our own baptism. We are reminded that in our baptism we too are called God’s beloved sons and daughters. In baptism we share in the three-fold ministry of Jesus as priest, prophet, and shepherd. Our ministry in the church is a gift and is rooted in the waters of baptism. Every ministry that we do is a response to God’s call.

At this time, I would like to introduce our new parish council chair, Katie Metzger. Having heard God’s call, Katie has been serving our community for many years. She served as a member of the parish staff and she continues to serve as a catechist, a spiritual director, an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist, and now the chairperson of our parish council. She has also joined our Nicaragua Mission trips. Katie also completed the Diocesan Institute for Ministry Leadership program (ILM). She comes to us as a person of deep faith and prayer, which I believe are her greatest strengths. Please join me in thanking Katie for accepting this important ministry to serve as chair of Holy Spirit’s Parish Council.

My thanks to Stephanie Kavanagh, who has chaired the Council for many years. Stephanie served both Fr. Brendan and me. I am grateful for her guidance especially during those challenging times of Covid and transition. Stephanie will continue to serve as a member of the council. Thank you, Stephanie!

I believe there is great wisdom in ending the Christmas season with the feast of the Lord’s Baptism because it reminds us that the Holy Child born in Bethlehem more than two thousand years ago calls us, not just to sentimentalize Christmas, but to live it out. Our Baptism calls us to action. We are children of God, yes, but that comes with a mission - that is to make God’s presence known in our world.