Baptism of Our Lord – Year A (2023)

The readings for the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord for Year A give us reason to think about our own baptisms. The first reading (Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7) speaks of our savior. The psalm (Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10) declares “The Lord will bless his people with peace.” The second reading (Acts 10:34-38) points out that Jesus Christ was baptized for the sake of our own salvation. In the gospel (Matthew 3:13-17) recounts how Jesus was baptized in the Jordan by John the Baptist.

Do we take our own baptisms for granted? Have we really thought about what this sacrament means in our lives? Here are some ideas for this week:

Paper Plate Dove Craft

April 26 is the birthday of John James Audubon.  He is famous for his drawings of birds. In honor of his birthday, make your own bird art.  This paper plate dove craft is simple enough for your Vacation Bible School or Children's Liturgy of the Word.

Drip Drip Drop Game for Youth Ministry

This is a water game for teenagers which can be played indoors if you don't mind wiping up a few puddles at the end. It is basically Duck Duck Goose with water.

Water Drop Race (Youth Ministry or VBS Game)

This is another indoor water game. It is not messy at all! This works well with any age group also. It would go well with any topic related to water, such as baptism, or a community theme, since the water drop sticks together.

Baptism Word Search Puzzle

This word search puzzle includes words typically associated with baptism. It is suitable for use with your Children's Liturgy of the Word, Vacation Bible School (VBS), or Youth Ministry.

This Is My Beloved Son (Video)

This video from Holy Heroes tells of how John baptized Jesus and he was affirmed as beloved, which is the gospel for the Baptism of the Lord - Year A. A coloring sheet and Mass quiz are also available for each week. Use these to prepare for Sunday Mass at home or for Children's Liturgy of the Word.

A Light for the Nations

I, the LORD, have called you for the victory of justice, I have grasped you by the hand; I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement, and from the dungeon, those who live in darkness.

Baptism of the Lord – Year A: Life Teen Summit Reflection

In this video from Life Teen, Joel Stepanek helps us understand the readings for the Baptism of the Lord for Year A. Spoiler alert: it is about peace.