It is always a great joy when we have the opportunity to baptise children, to welcome them into God’s church. The symbol of water baptism is one which was given by Jesus himself, who commanded his disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father, Son and Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded” (Matthew 28:19-20). Baptism does not make someone a Christian, but it does powerfully symbolise our turning from sin and the cleansing from sin which only Jesus can give.
We must not forget that baptism is not only performed on infants. The Bible makes clear that baptism should be performed on any person who has become a disciple of Jesus, regardless of age (e.g. Acts 8:36). Perhaps you were not baptised as an infant. But if you have become a follower of Jesus, then it is right to be baptised, to make a public acknowledgement of the new birth given to you by God.
Strictly speaking, the Prayer Book assumes that any person receiving Holy Communion should have been baptised. This makes sense, because baptism is the symbolic beginning of the Christian life. I am happy for anyone to receive communion if they are a disciple of Jesus. But if you are an unbaptised disciple, then let me know! I hope we might be able to have some adult baptisms this year, to celebrate the new life which is at work amongst us.
In brief:
- We’ve firmed up plans for the movie night. We’ll do Prince of Egypt first, and the Ten Commandments later on a separate night.
- Don’t forget that you’re best to read the book before you watch the movie! Pick up your Exodus journal in the porch for $15. Why not add in a St Jude’s pen ($2) as the perfect companion purchase!!
Yours,
Andrew Schmidt
Rector