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Baptism of the Lord Year C

Sunday January 9, 2028

Mass Readings for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

  • First Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7: God has appointed a servant, who will subtly but surely establish justice worldwide. This servant, a light for all nations, will guide the blind, free the confined, and illuminate darkness.
  • Alternate First Reading – Isaiah  40:1-5, 9-11: God promises comfort and redemption to His people, instructing to prepare for His arrival by straightening the path. He will reveal His glory to all, arriving powerfully, rewarding, and gently leading His flock.
  • Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 29: A call to glorify the Lord for His might and majesty, and the declaration that He reigns eternally. God’s voice over the waters signifies His power and control, ensuring peace to His people.
  • Alternate Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 104: Acknowledgment of God’s greatness in creating and maintaining the world. All creatures depend on Him for sustenance and life. His Spirit renews the earth, affirming His continuous creation.
  • Second Reading – Acts 10:34-38: God shows no favoritism, accepting anyone who fears Him and acts uprightly. Jesus, anointed with the Holy Spirit and power, traveled spreading good and healing those oppressed.
  • Alternate Second Reading – Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7: God’s grace saves all, teaching us to live righteously. Jesus sacrificed himself for our deliverance, cleansing a devoted people for Himself. Our salvation, through rebirth and Holy Spirit’s renewal, is due to God’s mercy, enabling us to become heirs of eternal life.
  • Gospel – Luke 3:15-16, 21-22: The people wondered if John the Baptist was the Christ, but he clarified that he baptized with water while someone more powerful would come to baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. When Jesus was baptized by John, heaven opened, the Holy Spirit descended in bodily form like a dove, and a voice from heaven affirmed Jesus as God’s beloved Son, in whom He is well pleased.

Lectionary Reference: 21

The Baptism of the Lord is celebrated on the Sunday after January 6. When the Feast of the Epiphany falls on Sunday January 7 or Sunday January 8, then the Baptism of the Lord is observed on Monday instead.

Upcoming dates: January 9, 2028, January 12, 2031

You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.

Luke 3:22

Themes for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

In the first reading for the Baptism of the Lord Year C we hear being formed and presented as a light for the nations. The alternate first reading foretells the coming of John the Baptist. The psalm tells us to give God the glory. The alternate psalm praises God for his life-giving power. In the second reading we hear that Jesus was anointed with the Spirit. The alternate second reading we are told Christ renews us with his Spirit. The gospel tells of the baptism of Jesus Christ, when the Spirit descended and a voice declared “You are my beloved Son”.

  • The Baptism of Jesus: The gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C describes Jesus’ baptism by John, symbolizing His identification with humanity, His submission to God’s will, and the beginning of His public ministry.
  • John the Baptist’s Role: The gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C also highlights John the Baptist’s proclamation of the coming Messiah and his role as the forerunner preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry.
  • The Holy Spirit: The presence of the Holy Spirit is prominent in this passage, as the Spirit descends upon Jesus in the form of a dove, signifying His anointing and empowerment for His ministry.
  • Divine Confirmation: The voice from heaven affirms Jesus as the beloved Son of God, expressing the divine confirmation of His identity and mission.
  • Trinitarian Revelation: The baptism scene reveals the simultaneous presence of the Father (voice from heaven), the Son (Jesus being baptized), and the Holy Spirit (descending like a dove), providing a glimpse into the Trinitarian nature of God.
  • The Call to Repentance and Obedience: John the Baptist’s message of repentance and his call to bear fruits of righteousness resonate throughout the passage, highlighting the importance of turning away from sin and living a life aligned with God’s will.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the Baptism of the Lord Year C.

Resources for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

Sunday January 9, 2028

Beloved – A Baptism Lesson Plan

This Beloved lesson plan for the Baptism of the Lord Year C focuses on fostering an understanding of how baptism is a sacrament that initiates individuals into the divine family of our Heavenly Father. The lesson plan can explore the significance of baptism in the life of a believer, emphasizing the sense of belonging and unity it brings.

Through this resource for the Baptism of the Lord Year C, youth can deepen their understanding of the sacramental journey and develop a stronger connection to their faith community and the love of God.

Baptism Word Search Puzzle

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, this word search puzzle presents an engaging resource that introduces and reinforces key vocabulary related to baptism. It allows individuals to actively search for and identify words typically associated with the sacrament of baptism.

This puzzle not only promotes learning and retention of essential terms but also encourages contemplation and reflection on the profound symbolism and significance of baptism in the context of the Catholic faith. It can be a useful tool for catechists, educators, or families looking to engage participants in a fun and educational activity centered around the sacrament of baptism and the Baptism of the Lord Year C.

Drip Drip Drop Game

This game can be used as a playful and interactive way to reinforce the themes of purification and renewal symbolized by the sacrament of baptism, for the Baptism of the Lord Year C. Just as water is used in the game to engage and refresh the participants, baptism cleanses and renews the soul.

The game can serve as a metaphorical representation of the transformative power of baptism, reminding teenagers of the importance of embracing spiritual purification and seeking renewal in their faith. Through this engaging activity, they can deepen their understanding of the sacrament and its significance in their lives.

Paper Plate Dove Craft

This paper plate dove craft is an excellent choice to reinforce the themes of the Baptism of the Lord Year C in your Vacation Bible School or Children’s Liturgy of the Word. By engaging in this hands-on activity, children can explore the symbolism of the dove, which represents the Holy Spirit descending during Jesus’ baptism.

Creating doves and other shapes associated with the fruits or gifts of the Holy Spirit encourages reflection on the importance of these spiritual virtues in their lives. This craft fosters creativity and provides a visual reminder of the lessons learned, enhancing the overall experience of the event. Let the crafting begin!

Water Drop Race

Water Drop Race, an engaging indoor water game that promotes unity and cooperation, can serve as a creative and interactive way to reinforce the themes of Baptism of the Lord Year C. This game aligns with the symbolic significance of water in the sacrament of baptism, representing purification, renewal, and the formation of a united community in Christ.

By participating in the Water Drop Race, individuals can experience the importance of staying together and working as a cohesive unit, just as the water drop remains intact when not divided. It provides a practical illustration of the unity and harmony celebrated during the Baptism of the Lord, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the sacrament’s themes.

Background Information for the Book of Isaiah

The first reading for the Baptism of the Lord Year C is from Isaiah. This book speaks of God’s servant who will bring justice, peace, and hope to all nations. This servant is gentle, lifting up those who are weak or broken. Christians see this as a message about Jesus, who fulfills this promise.

Through His life and teachings, Jesus shows God’s care for everyone, especially those in need. This reading highlights that God’s mission is for all people and that Jesus’ ministry will bring light and compassion to the world, reflecting God’s love for everyone.

Psalm 29: Unlock the Peace and Power of God’s Voice

Psalm 29 is one of the psalm choices for the Mass readings for the Baptism of the Lord Year C. It acknowledges God as the Lord of Majesty and King of the World, recognizing His sovereignty and authority over all creation.

The psalm expresses a deep sense of gratitude and surrender, offering everything back to the Lord who has given abundantly. It emphasizes the importance of actively listening to God’s voice, which resounds louder than thunder and has the power to move and inspire all of creation.

See a A Prayer for Strength and Peace based on Psalm 29.

Psalm 104: Experience the Wonder of God’s World

Psalm 104 is one of the responsorial psalm choices for the Baptism of the Lord Year C. It echoes the sentiments of praise and gratitude towards God for His marvelous creation and the blessings He bestows upon all living beings.

The prayer acknowledges God’s presence in every aspect of creation, from the encompassing light to the wind, clouds, and even fire, emphasizing His divine authority and power. It expresses reliance on God’s providence and the joy that comes from recognizing His constant presence through the sending of His Spirit.

See a prayer based on Psalm 104.

Background Material for the Gospel of Luke

The Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Luke 3:15-16, 21-22, highlights themes of identity, humility, and God’s love. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is shown as God’s Son who comes to serve. At His baptism, the Holy Spirit descends, and God calls Jesus His beloved Son.

This event shows Jesus’ closeness to God and begins His public mission. Luke often focuses on Jesus reaching out to those in need and showing God’s mercy. Here, Jesus joins others in baptism to set an example of humility, marking the start of His ministry and God’s saving work.

Homilies and Commentaries for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

Sunday January 9, 2028

Why Was Jesus Baptized?

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Bishop Robert Barron explains why Jesus’ baptism was surprising. The Son of God, sinless and pure, stood shoulder to shoulder with sinners in the Jordan River, seeking baptism from John. This was not just a symbolic act; it was a declaration of his mission. John the Baptist, a priest by birth, had left the temple in protest of its corruption under Herod. In the desert, he created a new way of purification, pointing to Jesus as the true sacrifice. When John called Jesus the “Lamb of God,” he revealed that Jesus had come to take on the sins of the world.

The image of the lamb connects Jesus’ baptism to his ultimate sacrifice. Just as the blood of a lamb was poured out in the temple, Jesus’ blood would be shed on the cross. His baptism was the first step toward the crucifixion, where he offered himself for the forgiveness of sins. The Mass continues this mystery, making his sacrifice present to us. By understanding the meaning of his baptism, we see the depth of his love and the purpose of his mission.

Claimed

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on how Jesus’ baptism changes everything. In Scripture, when something clean touches something unclean, the clean thing becomes contaminated. But Jesus reverses this. He steps into the waters of baptism, not because he needs to be cleansed, but to transform the water itself. His presence makes what is unclean pure. Throughout his ministry, he touches the sick, the outcasts, and even the dead, and instead of being defiled, he makes them whole. In his baptism, Jesus is publicly claimed by the Father as the beloved Son, not because of anything he has done, but simply because of who he is.

This same truth applies to us. Before we accomplish anything, before we prove ourselves, we are already loved and claimed by God. Too often, people live trying to earn God’s love, but Jesus shows that we begin our journey already claimed. This truth should shape everything we do.

Bridging Heaven and Earth

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Sr. Magdalen Coughlin reflects on John the Baptist’s humility and the human longing for something beyond the ordinary. John preached with passion, drawing crowds who were seeking hope. Yet, he did not claim the glory for himself. Instead, he pointed to Jesus, the One who was coming, the One more powerful than him. When Jesus was baptized, heaven opened, the Holy Spirit descended like a dove, and a voice declared him as the beloved Son. This moment revealed the connection between the earthly and the divine—Jesus, fully human and fully transcendent, had arrived.

Humans are seekers, always thirsting for something beyond themselves. This longing is placed in our hearts by God, who entered into our world in Jesus. The Baptism of the Lord Year C reminds us to look beyond what we see and hear, to keep searching for Christ. Those who seek him will never be disappointed.

The Head and the Heart

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Matthew Kelly reflects on how people in the Gospel were trying to figure out who John the Baptist was. They wondered if he was the Messiah, but John was clear about his role—he was preparing the way for someone greater. Instead of spending so much time analyzing others, Kelly challenges us to focus on discovering who we are and what unique mission God has given us. Too often, people compare themselves to others in ways that keep them comfortable, avoiding the deeper questions of growth and purpose.

Jesus’ baptism is an act of humility, acknowledging John’s role in God’s plan. As Jesus is baptized, the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” Kelly invites us to ask, what in our lives is pleasing to God? What needs to change? True self-discovery means embracing who God created us to be and courageously living out that call.

Beloved and Called by God

For the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Fr. Greg Friedman reflects on Jesus beginning his ministry with baptism. Though many Catholics may not remember their baptism as infants, adult baptisms at the Easter Vigil have become more common. In the Gospel, Jesus’ baptism is marked by the Holy Spirit descending like a dove and the Father declaring, “You are my beloved Son.” This moment affirms Jesus’ mission of preaching, healing, and sacrifice.

Baptism does the same for us. Isaiah speaks of God’s chosen servant, and Peter reminds us that all who live righteously are acceptable to God. Paul writes that through baptism, we receive renewal and the promise of eternal life. Whether or not we have a photo of our baptism, this feast reminds us that we are beloved sons and daughters of God. Baptism joins us to Christ’s mission and assures us of God’s love and presence in our lives.

Priests, Prophets, and Kings

In this homily for the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Bishop Robert Barron highlights the significance of the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord and its impact on our own baptism. He emphasizes that through baptism, we are grafted onto Christ and share in his relationship with the Father. Bishop Barron discusses the three aspects of our baptismal identity: priests, prophets, and kings. As priests, we are called to intercessory prayer. As prophets, we are called to speak God’s words. As kings, we are called to order our lives and direct others towards the kingdom of God.

Embracing Our Baptismal Call

In this reflection, Jeff Cavins explores the scriptures for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord Year C. He highlights the significance of Jesus choosing the lowest place on Earth, the Jordan River, to begin his public ministry. Through baptism, we receive new life and become sons and daughters of God. We are equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit, received in confirmation, to be bold witnesses of Jesus in the world. At times we may feel unsure or inadequate, but as we rely on the Holy Spirit, words and guidance will be given to us. We must embrace our baptismal call and follow the example of Jesus in changing the world through their lives and actions.

The Anointing

In this reflection for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord Year C, Scott Hahn explores the significance of Jesus’ baptism and its connection to God’s plan for all peoples. Jesus humbles Himself to pass through the waters of baptism, leading a new “exodus” that opens up the promised land of heaven for everyone. Jesus is the chosen servant anointed with the Spirit, the liberator and light to the nations. Through baptism, God sanctifies the waters, making them a passageway to healing, freedom, new birth, and everlasting life.

Reflection for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

On the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we reflect on the baptism of Jesus. This event reveals Jesus’ humility, marks the start of his mission, and shows the Trinity. By looking at Jesus’ baptism, we can understand more about our own baptism and the call to serve and love others.

A Sign of Love and Humility

In the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we reflect on the special event of Jesus’ baptism. Jesus, though sinless, chose to be baptized by John the Baptist, who called people to repent. Why did Jesus, who had no need to repent, decide to be baptized?

One reason is that Jesus wanted to show his support and understanding for us. He wanted to share in our humanity and weaknesses. By being baptized, Jesus stood with those who were seeking forgiveness and a new start. He showed that he was not distant from us but very close, sharing in our struggles.

Another reason is that Jesus’ baptism was a way to begin his mission. It was a public sign that he was ready to do God’s work. The heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit came down like a dove. A voice from heaven said, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.” This showed that Jesus was chosen by God for a special purpose.

Through Jesus’ baptism, we see how much God loves us. Jesus showed that he is with us in our joys and our difficulties. He came to save us and to show us the way to God. By being baptized, Jesus showed that he was one of us, sharing in everything we go through.

A Call to Serve and Love

In the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we remember the day Jesus was baptized. This event marked the beginning of his important work. When Jesus came out of the water, he prayed, making it clear that this was a special moment in his life. The Holy Spirit came down on him like a dove. This is similar to how the Spirit empowered the disciples at Pentecost for their mission.

Jesus’ baptism prepared him to spread the good news, heal broken hearts, and set people free. He was ready to do God’s work and to show God’s love to everyone. Jesus cared for people like a shepherd cares for sheep. He was gentle, kind, and always ready to help those in need.

When we think about Jesus’ baptism, we should also think about our own baptism. Our baptism prepares us to share in the work of Jesus. We are called to care for one another, to help those in need, to show mercy and love, and to guide others toward God’s goodness. Baptism makes us part of God’s family and gives us a mission to share God’s love with others.

Just as Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit, we are also given the strength to do good in our lives. We can bring hope to those who are sad, help those who are struggling, and show kindness to everyone we meet. Through our actions, we can show the love of God in the world.

A Glimpse of the Trinity

In the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we see a special moment where the Trinity is revealed. The baptism of Jesus shows us the presence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This gives us a glimpse into the Trinitarian nature of God.

As Jesus is baptized, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit comes down like a dove. At the same time, a voice from heaven speaks, saying, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.” Here, we see the Father speaking from heaven, the Son being baptized, and the Holy Spirit descending. This moment shows us how the three Persons of the Trinity are present and working together.

This scene helps us understand that God is a community of love. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are united and share in the work of salvation. Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of his mission to bring God’s love to the world. The Holy Spirit empowers him, and the Father’s voice affirms him.

When we think about the Trinity revealed at Jesus’ baptism, we are reminded that our own baptism also connects us to this loving relationship. We are invited to share in the life of the Trinity and to spread God’s love to others. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united in love and mission, we are called to live in love and to serve others in our daily lives.

Reflecting on the Baptism of the Lord Year C helps us see Jesus’ love, the beginning of his mission, and the unity of the Trinity. It reminds us of our own baptism and our call to live in love and service. We are invited to join in Jesus’ mission and share God’s love with everyone.

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the gift of baptism. Help us to follow Jesus’ example of love and service. Fill us with your Holy Spirit so we can bring hope and kindness to others. Amen.

Reflection Questions for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

  • Why did Jesus, though sinless, choose to be baptized?
  • How does Jesus’ baptism show his support for humanity?
  • What significance does Jesus’ baptism have in starting his mission?
  • How is the Trinity revealed in Jesus’ baptism?
  • What does it mean for us that Jesus was baptized and empowered by the Holy Spirit?
  • How can we see our own baptism as a call to mission?
  • In what ways can we show love and service to others as Jesus did?
  • How does understanding the Trinity help us in our daily lives?
  • What can we learn from Jesus’ humility in being baptized by John?
  • How can we live out the unity and love of the Trinity in our communities?

Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

Today’s Gospel shows us the Baptism of Jesus. He who is the Son of God, the Messiah goes to the Jordan River to be baptized. He lines up with the sinners, He shares our plight, He goes down into the river and at the same time into the wounded history of humanity to heal it.

Pope Francis on the Baptism of the Lord Year C
The Baptism of the Lord Year C

Music Suggestions for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

Sunday January 9, 2028

Music for the Baptism of the Lord Year C invites us to reflect on themes of renewal, the call to discipleship, and the embrace of God’s love. Selections that focus on water, rebirth, and the Holy Spirit connect us with the moment Jesus was baptized, marking the start of His ministry and our own journeys of faith. Hymns that emphasize light, love, and following Christ deepen the celebration of His baptism and remind us of the path we walk as children of God. Uplifting and gentle songs work well, bringing us into a spirit of welcome, commitment, and trust in God’s call.

For music directors and musicians, these selections for the Baptism of the Lord Year C offer an opportunity to highlight the beauty and power of baptism. Consider trying these songs, or suggesting your own favorites that connect to the themes of water, light, and God’s love. Let’s make this celebration one of reflection and joy. Please share your thoughts and song ideas in the comments!

Questions and Answers for the Baptism of the Lord Year C

What date is the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

The next date is Sunday January 9, 2028.
For other years see the links below:
Baptism of the Lord Year A
Baptism of the Lord Year B

What are the Mass readings for the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday January 9, 2028 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7: A Servant of Justice
Alternate First Reading – Isaiah  40:1-5, 9-11: Comfort and Preparation for the Lord’s Arrival
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 29: Adoration and Glory to the Lord
Alternate Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 104: Praise to the Creator
Second Reading – Acts 10:34-38: God’s Impartiality and Jesus’ Mission
Alternate Second Reading – Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7: Grace, Salvation and Renewal Through Jesus Christ
Gospel – Luke 3:15-16, 21-22: John the Baptist’s Preaching and Jesus’ Baptism

Why did Jesus get baptized if he had no sin in the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

Jesus got baptized to show he was with us. He wanted to share in our humanity and show support for those seeking forgiveness.

What does the Holy Spirit descending like a dove mean?

The Holy Spirit coming down like a dove shows that God was giving Jesus power for his mission. It is a sign of peace and God’s presence.

Why did a voice from heaven speak at Jesus’ baptism in the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

The voice from heaven is God the Father. He was showing his love and approval of Jesus, saying, “You are my beloved Son.”

How is the Trinity shown in Jesus’ baptism in the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

In the Baptism of the Lord Year C, the Trinity is shown by the Father’s voice from heaven, the Son being baptized, and the Holy Spirit descending like a dove. It shows the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

What can we learn from Jesus’ baptism?

We learn that Jesus is humble and wants to share in our struggles. His baptism also shows us the importance of beginning our mission with God’s blessing.

How does Jesus’ baptism relate to our baptism?

Our baptism connects us to Jesus and his mission. It prepares us to share God’s love and serve others, just as Jesus did.

What is the significance of the heavens opening at Jesus’ baptism in the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year C?

The heavens opening show that God was pleased and ready to empower Jesus for his work. It marks the start of something new and important.

How can we apply the message of Jesus’ baptism to our lives?

We can apply this by being humble, caring for others, and seeking to do God’s work in our daily lives. We should show love and mercy like Jesus.

Why is the Baptism of the Lord Year C important for Christians?

It is important because it shows us Jesus’ humility, the start of his mission, and the presence of the Trinity. It reminds us of our own call to serve and love.

What does Jesus’ baptism teach us about God’s love?

It teaches us that God’s love is for everyone. Jesus showed that he is with us in our joys and struggles, and he came to guide us to God.

Jesus’ Baptism: A Sign of Humility and Mission

On the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we celebrate Jesus’ baptism by John in the Jordan River. Although Jesus was sinless, he chose to join those repenting, showing his closeness to humanity and his willingness to stand with us. His baptism was a humble act, a way of sharing in our journey and connecting deeply with each of us. Through this event, we see Jesus’ love and commitment to humanity.

This event also marked the start of Jesus’ mission. When he was baptized, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove, confirming his role. A voice from heaven proclaimed, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.” Jesus’ baptism shows that he was chosen and equipped for his mission to share God’s message of love and healing.

At the baptism, we catch a glimpse of the Trinity. The Father speaks from heaven, the Son receives baptism, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove. This moment reveals God’s loving unity and reminds us of the love shared between the Father, Son, and Spirit. On the Baptism of the Lord Year C, we are invited into this relationship and encouraged to share God’s love with the world.

Your Turn

As we remember the Baptism of the Lord Year C, let’s consider how Jesus’ example shapes our own lives. Jesus’ baptism was a call to mission, and our own baptism also invites us to share God’s love with others.

How does this call influence you in daily life? Reflect on this special moment in the comments below.

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