The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

Today the Church celebrates the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. This Feast is celebrated on the Sunday following 6 January unless Epiphany is celebrated on 7 or 8 January, in which case it is celebrated on the following day. The celebration of this feast concludes the Christmas season.

The assigned first reading is Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 (or Isaiah 55:1-11). Because it is a week day, the usual second reading, Acts 10:35-38 (1 John 5:1-9), may also be used in place of the first reading. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 29 (Psalm 29:1-4, 9-10).

The Gospel reading, Mark 1:7-11, is as follows:

This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: "One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

Reflection on this celebration:

Oblates of St. Francis de Sales: Sundays Salesian: Baptism of the Lord (January 9, 2012)

Msgr. Charles Pope: Don’t build a bridge over troubled waters! Wade on in! A Meditation on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. (8 JAN 12)