Life After Baptism
There is life after Baptism! The journey begins at the Font but does not end there. As we journey together through the forty days of Lent, our hearts are focused on renewal. On every Ash Wednesday, we hear the sobering reminder from Genesis 3:19. “…for dust you are and to dust you will return.” Reminding us to prepare for the glorious reality of the Resurrection.
This season is sacred for those among us preparing for Baptism or reception into the Church at the Easter Vigil. However, it is important for all of us, candidates, parents, godparents, and parishioners, to remember that the Sacrament of Baptism is not a “graduation.” It does not end at the font. It is a sacred gateway into all the sacraments of the Church, and a lifelong spiritual journey.
The Church calls the period following Baptism Mystagogy, occurring in the 50 days after the Easter Triduum. It should not be considered as the final period of the catechumenal process. Rather, a period of understanding or “savoring” the newfound faith, learning to see with the eyes of Christ, and walking every single day in His footsteps.
Baptism is our spiritual rebirth. Through water and the Holy Spirit, we are freed from sin and made children of God. To all who have been baptized or accepted into the church: You have received an “indelible mark” on your soul, a seed of grace meant to blossom for a lifetime.
To all parents and Godparents: Your role is vital. You are the primary custodians or gardeners of this seed sown. You are to help those in your care to nurture this new life through prayer, example, and love.
Growing in faith is not a solo mission; it is a communal responsibility. We must help one another through the Word and Sacraments, and active involvement in parish life. Faith matures when we walk together, by sharing, supporting our clergy, and building a community rooted in love and respect.
Every baptized Christian shares in the “Threefold Mission” of Jesus Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. As Prophet: to speak God’s truth with love and integrity. As Priest: to offer our daily joys and labors as a spiritual sacrifice. As King: to lead through servant leadership, bringing hope to the world.
Do you know your natural birthday? How many of us know the date of our spiritual rebirth, the day we were born again? This Easter, I challenge you to find the date of your Baptism. Mark it on your calendar and celebrate it every year with joy. It is the day you were truly born as a child of God.
Let us pray for our Sacred Heart Parish family:
Heavenly Father, We thank you for the Sacrament of Baptism, the sacred gateway that joins us to the Body of Christ and marks us forever as Your own sons and daughters.
We pray for those preparing for the Easter Sacraments and those who have accepted the faith. Strengthen their hearts. Deepen their desire for Your truth and fill them with the joy of the Holy Spirit as they approach the living waters of rebirth.
We pray for parents and godparents: Grant them wisdom and patience. Help them to be lanterns of faith, guiding those in their care by the light of Your Word and the warmth of Your love.
For our entire parish community: Remind us always, Lord, that our journey did not end at the baptismal font but began there. Give us the grace to be witnesses to Your presence among our brothers and sisters who have begun their journey of faith. Help us also to live out our vows to be priests, prophets, and kings, serving the poor and reflecting Your mercy in all we do.
May we always cherish the day of our baptism as our true “born again” birthday, walking together as one family toward the eternal life You have promised. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Life after Baptism is a call to action, a daily, beautiful unfolding of grace. As you renew your baptismal promises this Easter, may Christ’s love shape your every action.
Remain blessed,
Father Matthew Abu B. Cole, SMA
Parochial Vicar