Baptism of the Lord
At the beginning of his public ministry, Jesus presents himself to John to be baptized in the Jordan. The heavens open, the Holy Spirit descends as a dove and we hear the voice of God: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased” (see Psalm 2:7).
At this festival of the Christian year, we not only remember Jesus’ baptism, but we celebrate our own: the baptism we share with Christ. Accordingly, this Sunday is an appropriate time to celebrate the sacrament of baptism or the reaffirmation of the baptismal covenant. It also foreshadows the season of Lent, as Jesus was immediately driven into the wilderness for 40 days after his own baptism.
Lectionary readings for Baptism of the Lord
Read the Revised Common Lectionary Scripture lessons for the Baptism of the Lord:
Baptism of the Lord Inspiration
Resources for Baptism of the Lord
A service for Baptism of the Lord Sunday with a renewal of baptismal vows and holy communion.
These prayers might be used in a variety of settings: Opening Prayers (at the beginning of worship) or concluding collects (after the Prayers of the People); for church websites or newsletters; or in personal, small group or family devotion.
The Revised Common Lectionary readings for Baptism of the Lord and Transfiguration of the Lord bracket the time after Epiphany with God’s words of favor to Jesus: “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Download a chart that demonstrates the parallels among the gospel lessons for these days, a helpful resource for teaching and preaching.
Contact Us
David Gambrell
Associate for Worship
david.gambrell@pcusa.org