Once one of the themes of Epiphany the memorial of the baptism of Christ is now celebrated by Catholics on the Sunday following Epiphany. This feast marks the end of the period of time where the church focuses on the birth and early years of Christ’s life and the beginning of the period of time leading up to Easter. It is the memorial of the beginning of Christ’s earthly ministry and the Theophany where Jesus is declared to be the Beloved Son, Savior of Mankind, and member of the Godhead.
In Orthodox theology the Baptism of Christ is called the Theophany and is the prophetic fulfillment of Hannukah, the Feast of Dedication, that also happens in the winter. In his baptism Christ is seen as being ritually dedicated as the living temple that housed the presence of God and for his ministry as the Messiah.
Family Activities
- Read the baptism accounts in the Gospels
- Baptism in water. Discuss why it is that we get baptized too and how Christ sets the example for us of what it means to dedicate yourself to God.
- Holy Spirit. The baptism of Christ is the first time that the Holy Spirit is explicitly referenced. Discuss who the Holy Spirit is, their role, and share any stories of experiencing the Spirit.
- Make a sweet humorously called “Christ’s Diapers“. Baptism in water is our re-birth into eternal life through Christ. While making the treat discuss what it means to be a “baby” in the faith, then “like a child”, and finally to mature. This is the process of progression we all must make.
Discovering the Saints 
Leave a comment