Monday, 17 March 2008

Weekly reflection...Baptism

Baptism is the funniest of things, for all the emphasis we place on its importance, it was a ceremony which Jesus went through, but of which there is no record of Him ever doing himself (He did however, command all His disciples to do). It is an important ritual welcoming new members into the life of the Church, and yet so often an isolated Christian event in someone’s life. It is a conundrum of an era which is currently changing – to baptise or not to baptise? For hundreds of years now, we have baptised infants because the whole of society was driven by faith and religion, a child was by virtue of their birth a member of the Church; yet, this may no longer being the case. Baptism is a tricky one.

Much more easily understood is the practice of confirmation. Confirmation was traditionally a part of baptism, but over time became separated for good reason. Confirmation is that process whereby we stand before God and our community and affirm those baptismal vows made on our behalf at an earlier stage.

Students, staff and family members interested in Baptism and Confirmation have begun to touch base with me. Preparation will take place in term 2 and is great fun.

Our community faith is strong and growing. The faith of its individuals are, I hope, continuing to develop. If you find yourself with questions like ‘What might my next step of faith be’?, then please consider Baptism or confirmation a worthwhile investment! Just call me at the school or send an email if you want to know more!

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