Baptismal Remembrance

Sunday, January 10th is the Baptism of our Lord Sunday. This is a great Sunday to help the entire congregation remember their baptisms, but also to specifically lift up those who were baptized this past year in your congregation. Below is a blessing that can be included as part of a worship service to remember and celebrate baptism. This was modified from the Milestones Ministry Manual from Vibrant Faith Ministries.

Baptism Remembrance Blessing

Epiphany means “show forth” or “make manifest.” During the epiphany season, the lessons tell of how Jesus showed himself to be the Son of God and the Savior of the world. Today we hear of Jesus being baptized. And today we honor all those who were baptized this past year and we recommit ourselves to the live from the identify God has given each of us in baptism.

We invite those families who are being recognized this morning to come forward and gather around the baptismal font and Christ candle.

Renewing the Baptismal Promises

ALL: At your baptism, you heard the words of Jesus, who says to you and all who are baptized, “You are the light of the world; let your light shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your father who is in heaven.” Today we celebrate your new life in Christ and ask you to renew your baptismal covenant. We, the congregation, renew our promise to support and equip you to use your gifts to follow Christ in daily life.

PASTOR: A voice from heaven declared, “You are my son, my Beloved!”

ALL: In the name of the Father…

PASTOR: John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the Jordan River and declared, “I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

ALL: In the name of the Son…

PASTOR: The Spirit, descending from heaven like a dove, came upon him.

ALL: In the name of the Holy Spirit.

PASTOR: With a splash of water and a promise, we are called children of God. We are gathered together to remember our baptism as we say…

ALL: In the name of the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen.

Rite of Remembrance

LEADER: When you were baptized, the pastor spoke the same words and also made the sign of the cross on your forehead and on your heart.

ALL: Receive the sign of the cross as a sign that you have been redeemed by Christ who died on the cross for us.

(A parent or parents of the child or sponsor for a teen or another adult make the sign of the cross on the one whose baptism is being recognized.)

LEADER: We gather to remember that baptism is not just an event. We affirm that these individuals are on a journey of faith that continues today and for the rest of their lives. Regardless of age, they are beloved children of God.

ALL: Help us Lord, to continue our journey with you.

PASTOR: Will you continue to be among God’s people, to hear God’s Word and share in God’s meal, the Holy Communion?

BAPTIZED, SPONSORS, AND FAMILIES: Yes, with the help of God.

LEADER: Will you practice your faith when you rise and when you go to bed, when you are at home and when you are away?

BAPTIZED, SPONSORS, AND FAMILIES: Yes, with the help of God and support of this Christian community.

LEADER: The following were received by God as God’s children through baptism this past year.

(As each one’s name is read, invite them to light their candle from the Christ candle.)

LEADER: As we see your light burning, let it remind us to reflect the light of Christ and let Christ’s light shine through us in our homes and in our daily lives.

ALL: We are beloved children of God. Let us celebrate!

PASTOR: Let us pray together: Gracious God, at the baptism of Jesus you proclaimed him your beloved son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized into Christ faithful in their calling to be your children. Help us to serve you, cherish your forgiveness and grace and always live in honor of you. Amen.