Baptism of the Lord
The scripture readings for this weekend invite us to take to heart the centrality of justice and peace. This was the mission of Jesus. Through our baptism we too have made a lifelong commitment to bring justice and peace to all our relationships.
First Reading Isaiah 55:1-11
Here is my servant whom I uphold,
my chosen one with whom I am pleased,
upon whom I have put my spirit;
he shall bring forth justice to the nations …
OR Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7
… For just as from the heavens
the rain and snow come down
and do not return there
till they have watered the earth,
making it fertile and fruitful,
giving seed to the one who sows
and bread to the one who eats,
so shall my word be
that goes forth from my mouth;
my word shall not return to me void,
but shall do my will,
achieving the end for which I sent it.
Psalm 29
Response: The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Music for the psalm by Louis Canter is available HERE
Second Reading Acts 10: 34-38
OR 1 John 5: 1-9
… This is the one who came through water and blood, Jesus Christ,
not by water alone, but by water and blood.
The Spirit is the one who testifies, and the Spirit is truth.
So there are three that testify, the Spirit, the water, and the blood,
and the three are of one accord. …
'The Baptism of Christ' by Leonardo da Vinci
Gospel Mark 1:7-11
… 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.”
Prayer of the Faithful (You could use or adapt the following)
Respond to each prayer with: Whakarongo mai ra kia matou
Kia inoi tatou – Let us pray ...
For the Church: that the Holy Spirit will empower and enlighten us so that we live in the ways of justice and peace, as beloved children of God.
E te Ariki. Response
For a deeper awareness of God’s abiding love: that through the baptismal message in our Scriptures today, we have a renewed awareness of the constant presence and promise God has made with us.
E te Ariki. Response
For those newly baptised and all who are preparing for baptism: that they may be changed by the waters of new life and allow the Holy Spirit to guide their growth in faith, wisdom and holiness.
E te Ariki. Response
For those who are sick: that God’s merciful Spirit will wrap around them, relieve their suffering and restore them to good health and wellbeing.
E te Ariki. Response
'Baptism of Christ' by Joachim Patinir (1515)