Ascension : New's From St. Mary's
Submitted by The Islander (Clive & Jenny Duncan) 15.01.2004 (Article Archived on 29.01.2004)

Last Sunday we celebrated the feast of the Baptism of Jesus. Jesus' baptism was a defining moment in his life as it marked the beginning of his public mission.

Dear Friends

Last Sunday we celebrated the feast of the Baptism of Jesus.  Jesus' baptism was a defining moment in his life as it marked the beginning of his public mission.  It is very interesting to note here that St. Luke in his Gospel always presents Jesus as praying before making major decisions so its no surprise that we find him praying during his baptism.  In response to his prayer, the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form at the beginning of his ministry, the same way that it became visible form on the apostles at Pentecost before they started out on their mission.

During Mass on Sunday a number of us witness witnessed the baptism of Kozell Cliff Yon-Brooks.  What happened at Jesus' baptism also happened at Kozell's baptism as well as ours.  God called us by name, you are my beloved son, or you are my beloved daughter.  The Holy Spirit descended on us in order to help us to live the life of a Christian and to participate in the mission of Jesus. Baptism is the greatest thing that can happen to anyone so we should therefore try and remember to celebrate our baptismal day, the day we were born as children of God.  To live one's baptism is to live as a disciple of Jesus.

Have a pleasant week.

Canon Clive.