BAPTISM OF THE LORD

R.C.I.A. stands for Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is the revised rite for adult baptism, confirmation and Eucharist asked for by Second Vatican Council (1962-1965).

For many years at St Joseph’s, people have come forward to receive these sacraments. It is a sign of the vitality of the Body of Christ that people want to join the community of His followers.

This year again we are blessed at St Joseph’s with 14 women and men who are following each week the RCIA programme. The group is made up of people from different cultures and backgrounds. All have one common purpose – to know Jesus and to belong to the community of believers.

There is a saying that faith is as much caught as taught. Isn’t this true? Of course, we need instruction in doctrine but without the witness to Jesus in daily life, it is unlikely that new members will come forward to join us.

At St Joseph’s we have three faith-filled parishioners who from October 2009 to Easter 2010, witness to their faith and impart teaching about Jesus and the Church to those 14 people seeking Jesus.

Each Thursday night I attend the RCIA sessions in the hall. Each week my own faith is strengthened by what takes place in the group. It seems to me that the whole group – catechumens and leaders – we are all seekers.

I have been baptised for over 60 years but I am still learning. Maybe only when we meet God in paradise will the full wonder of our baptism dawn on us.

On the Baptism of the Lord we are reminded that baptism is a gift from God. John the Baptist tells us in the Gospel today that Jesus “will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

With that as inspiration, I suggest that we might all pray for intentions such as these:

• For those at St Joseph’s who are preparing for Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
• That as we renew our Baptismal vows today, we will be powerfully inspired by the Holy Spirit and witness with enthusiasm to Jesus.
• That others who don’t yet know Jesus or His community may come forward to meet Him and become members of His Body here at St Joseph’s and in other places.

This weekend of the Baptism of The Lord brings to an end the season of Christmas. We have been richly blessed at St Joseph’s over the season of Advent and Christmas with great participation of large number of people. Visitors who joined us were a welcome addition to our community. Above all, the children among us reminded us of God being born as a baby. May He richly bless you!

Aidan Troy, C.P. [Aodhán ó Troighthigh, C.P.]