Dear Parishioners, Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, marking the conclusion of the Christmas season and the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. This significant event invites us to reflect on the meaning of baptism and our own call to discipleship. In the first reading from Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7, the prophet introduces the Servant of the Lord, chosen and endowed with God's Spirit to bring justice to the nations. This passage foreshadows Jesus, who, through His baptism, is revealed as the beloved Son and the fulfillment of this prophecy. Psalm 29 proclaims the majesty of God's voice, "The Lord will bless his people with peace." This psalm reminds us of the power and glory of God, who speaks to us through His Son. In the second reading from Acts 10:34-38, Peter testifies that God shows no partiality and that, through Jesus Christ, peace is proclaimed to all. He recounts how God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power, emphasizing the universal scope of salvation. The Gospel from Matthew 3:13-17 narrates Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River by John. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit descends like a dove, and a voice from heaven declares, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." This moment reveals Jesus' divine sonship and inaugurates His mission of redemption. Reflection Jesus' baptism, though He was sinless, signifies His solidarity with humanity and His willingness to share in our human condition. Through baptism, we are cleansed of sin, incorporated into the Body of Christ, and called to participate in His mission. As we reflect on the Lord's baptism, let us remember our own baptismal promises and the grace we received. We are called to live as beloved children of God, striving for holiness, justice, and peace. Let us renew our commitment to follow Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, and to be witnesses of God's love in the world. May the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord inspire us to embrace our identity as God's children and to live out our faith with renewed fervor. In Christ's love,