Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
Jesus Steps into the Water
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us who Jesus is and what He came to do. He walks into the Jordan River, not because He needs to, but to show us the way. This moment tells us that Jesus is ready to serve. He stands with us, not above us.
As He comes out of the water, something amazing happens. The Holy Spirit comes down like a dove. God speaks from heaven and calls Jesus His beloved Son. This is the first clear sign that Jesus is sent by God to bring peace and healing.
The Baptism of the Lord Year A is not only about what happened that day. It also points to our own baptism. Like Jesus, we are called to live with love and to follow God’s path each day. This feast invites us to remember that we belong to God too.
Mass Readings for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
- First Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7: The Lord’s chosen servant will bring justice quietly and gently. He will be a light to the nations, opening blind eyes and freeing prisoners.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 29: Give glory to the Lord, whose powerful and majestic voice is over the waters. He is king forever and will bless his people with peace.
- Second Reading – Acts 10:34-38: Peter tells Cornelius and his guests that God accepts anyone who respects Him and does good, mentioning Jesus’ message of peace and healing.
- Gospel – Matthew 3:13-17: Jesus gets baptized by John, despite John’s initial hesitation. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Holy Spirit descends, and God declares Jesus as His beloved Son.
The readings above are for lectionary cycle A. For other years see the links below:
Baptism of the Lord Year B
Baptism of the Lord Year C
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.
After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon him.
Matthew 3:16
Themes for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of Jesus’ mission and God’s saving plan. It shows us how Jesus was chosen and sent to bring light and salvation to all people.
- Jesus as God’s Servant: Jesus is revealed as the chosen servant, sent to bring justice and peace. The first reading shows God’s delight in His servant who brings hope to the nations.
- The Anointing of Jesus: Jesus is anointed by the Holy Spirit to carry out His mission. The second reading highlights how God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power to heal and bring peace.
- The Call to Humility: Jesus’ baptism shows His humility as He steps into the water with sinners. The Gospel shows Jesus identifying with those He came to save.
- The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit comes upon Jesus to strengthen Him for His mission. The Gospel reminds us that the Holy Spirit plays an important role in Jesus’ work.
- The Father’s Love and Approval: God the Father declares His love for His Son. This moment shows Jesus as the beloved Son, fulfilling His mission with the Father’s approval.
- Light for All People: Jesus is sent to open the eyes of the blind and free the oppressed. The first reading points to His mission to bring light to those in darkness.
The Baptism of the Lord Year A teaches us about Jesus’ mission and our call to follow Him. It reminds us of the Father’s love, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the hope Jesus brings to all.
Resources for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
- Baptism of Jesus: Lesson Plan on Solidarity
- Baptism Word Search Puzzle
- Drip Drip Drop Game
- Water Drop Race
- Paper Plate Dove Craft
- The Book of Isaiah: A Servant Who Brings Light
- Psalm 29: God’s Voice Over the Waters
- Acts of the Apostles: God Shows No Partiality
- The Gospel of Matthew: The Heavens Opened
Baptism of Jesus: Lesson Plan on Solidarity
This lesson plan helps youth understand why Jesus chose to be baptized and what that means for how we live today. It shows that Jesus didn’t stay distant. He chose to be close to people and share in their lives.
During the Baptism of the Lord Year A, this lesson helps young people see how they can follow Jesus by standing with others. It encourages them to show love, care, and kindness in small but real ways.
Baptism Word Search Puzzle
The Baptism of the Lord Year A is a good time to help children learn more about the sacrament of baptism. The baptism word search puzzle is a simple way to start that conversation. It introduces important words like “holy water,” “priest,” and “candle” that are part of the baptism ceremony. Kids enjoy the challenge of finding the words, and it helps them remember what each one means.
This puzzle can be used in many settings—religious education, children’s liturgy, or at home. It works well on its own or as part of a bigger lesson. During the Baptism of the Lord, it’s a good chance to review the meaning of this sacrament. As children find each word, catechists can explain its meaning and connect it to the Gospel reading. To find more ways to use this tool in your classroom or ministry, visit this guide on teaching the Sacrament of Baptism.
Drip Drip Drop Game
Drip Drip Drop is more than just a fun way to cool off. It gives youth a reason to laugh together, take turns, and enjoy each other’s company. Games like this help build trust and make everyone feel part of the group. It’s lighthearted and easy to join, which makes it perfect for youth gatherings.
This game can also support catechesis during the Baptism of the Lord Year A. Water becomes more than just part of a game—it reminds us of baptism and the new life it brings. Drip Drip Drop helps youth experience community, inclusion, and joy, all important parts of living out the faith.
Water Drop Race
The Water Drop Race is a simple and fun way to bring energy to a youth group or class. It gives young people a chance to laugh, play, and learn about patience and working carefully. Games like this help youth build friendships and enjoy being part of the group.
During the Baptism of the Lord Year A, this activity can also help youth think about how water is part of their faith. Just like the water drop moves with gentle care, God’s grace moves in our lives. The game can open the door to talk about baptism, unity, and how we stay together as members of God’s family.
Paper Plate Dove Craft
The paper plate dove craft is a fun and simple way to help children learn about the Holy Spirit. It gives them something to make with their hands while talking about faith. Activities like this help young learners stay focused and remember what they hear.
This craft works especially well during the Baptism of the Lord Year A. In the Gospel reading, the Holy Spirit comes down like a dove as Jesus is baptized. Making a dove helps children picture that moment and remember that the Holy Spirit is with us too.
The Book of Isaiah: A Servant Who Brings Light
In Isaiah 42, the servant is chosen to bring justice with gentleness. This fits with Isaiah’s focus on hope and restoration for a people in exile. God is not only judging but also renewing His people, using a servant who brings healing rather than destruction. This reading reminds us that God’s justice comes with compassion.
The servant’s role to open blind eyes and free captives shows Isaiah’s broader message of salvation for all nations. This connects to the theme of God’s universal plan, where His grace reaches beyond Israel. On the Baptism of the Lord Year A, we see Jesus stepping into this servant role, beginning a mission rooted in healing and mercy.
Psalm 29: God’s Voice Over the Waters
Psalm 29 describes the power of God’s voice over creation. In this psalm, God’s majesty is tied to natural forces like water and thunder. The Baptism of the Lord Year A reflects this, as God’s voice speaks over the waters of the Jordan. The psalm reminds us that God is present and active in the world, especially in moments of blessing.
The end of the psalm speaks of God giving peace to His people. This ties into a common theme in the Psalms: God’s strength brings comfort and safety. On this feast, we see Jesus identified as God’s beloved Son, and through Him, we receive peace and new life.
Acts of the Apostles: God Shows No Partiality
Acts 10 is a turning point in the early Church. Peter’s words to Cornelius highlight one of the book’s main themes: the Gospel is for everyone, not just Jews. This message of inclusiveness is key to understanding the mission of the Church. On the Baptism of the Lord Year A, we are reminded that Jesus came for all people.
Peter also describes Jesus as someone who went about healing and doing good. Acts often shows the Church continuing Jesus’ work through the Holy Spirit. His baptism marks the start of that public ministry. It also connects to the Church’s mission to bring peace and healing to the world.
The Gospel of Matthew: The Heavens Opened
In Matthew 3, Jesus begins His public ministry with a surprising act—receiving baptism from John. This moment fits Matthew’s theme of righteousness. Jesus does what is needed to fulfill the Father’s plan, even if it seems unexpected. The Baptism of the Lord Year A shows Jesus choosing humility at the start of His mission.
This scene also echoes Matthew’s focus on identity and authority. The voice from heaven calls Jesus the beloved Son, affirming His mission and divine nature. The Spirit’s presence connects this moment to the rest of the Gospel, where Jesus acts with God’s authority in teaching and healing.
Discover more in this introduction to the Gospel of Matthew.
Homilies and Commentaries for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
Initiation
From Fr. Richard Rohr of the Center for Action and Contemplation. We have two births. The first is our physical birth. We also have a second birth, an initiation. Jesus goes into the wilderness for an initiation. Even Jesus had to go on a journey and make discoveries. And at his initiation, he hears the voice of the Father. We experience our second birth when we hear God call us beloved.
Reflection for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
The Baptism of the Lord Year A invites us to reflect on the beginning of Jesus’ mission and what it means for our lives. Through His baptism, Jesus shows us humility, obedience to God, and the call to live as light for others. These reflections will help us think about how the readings connect to our own faith and baptismal promises.
Jesus as the Son of God
The Baptism of the Lord Year A shows us the moment when Jesus is revealed as the Son of God. In the Gospel, God’s voice declares, “This is my beloved Son,” to all who are present. This public affirmation makes it clear that Jesus has been chosen to fulfill God’s mission.
This moment tells us who Jesus is and why He has come. He is not just a teacher or a prophet. He is the Son of God, sent to bring salvation to the world. The baptism marks the beginning of His mission, showing that He is ready to follow the Father’s plan.
For us, this reminds us of our own identity as God’s children. Just as Jesus received the Father’s love and approval, we are loved by God too. This encourages us to trust in God’s plan for our lives and live in a way that honors Him.
Called to Be a Light
The Baptism of the Lord Year A calls us to reflect on how baptism sets us on a path of righteousness. Jesus says He is baptized for “righteousness,” showing His obedience to God and His mission to save others. In the first reading, Isaiah describes the servant who brings light to the nations, a role that Jesus fulfills.
At our own baptisms, we were given the light of Christ, symbolized by the baptismal candle. This light is not just a symbol but a mission. We are called to bring hope and goodness to those around us. We do this by showing kindness, standing up for what is right, and sharing our faith.
Baptism is not just a one-time event but a way of life. It reminds us to follow Jesus and shine His light in our homes, communities, and workplaces. When we live this way, we fulfill our baptismal call and become lights for the world.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Baptism of the Lord Year A highlights the work of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life and mission. When Jesus is baptized, the Spirit descends upon Him like a dove. This shows that the Spirit gives Him the strength and power to carry out His mission.
In the second reading, we hear how Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit to bring peace and healing. The Spirit was with Jesus every step of the way. This reminds us that the Holy Spirit is with us too, guiding us in our daily lives.
The Holy Spirit helps us to make good choices and to stay faithful to God. Through prayer and the sacraments, we can grow closer to the Spirit and receive the strength we need. The Baptism of the Lord Year A encourages us to open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and trust in His guidance.
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of who Jesus is and what He came to do. It also calls us to follow His example in bringing light, love, and hope to the world. May these reflections inspire us to live faithfully and share Christ’s light with others.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of Jesus and His example of humility and service. Help us to live out our baptismal call by sharing Your light with others. Guide us through the Holy Spirit to follow You each day. May we always trust in Your plan and grow in faith. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
- How does the Baptism of the Lord Year A show Jesus’ mission to save others?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is the Son of God?
- How can you live as a light for others in your daily life?
- What role does the Holy Spirit play in your faith journey?
- How do you show humility and obedience to God?
- In what ways do you reflect on your own baptism?
- How can you help others experience the light of Christ?
- What does “living in righteousness” mean in your life?
- How do the Father’s words about Jesus inspire you?
- How can you grow closer to the Holy Spirit through prayer or the sacraments?
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork
Heaven Opens at the River
Celebrate the Baptism of the Lord with this vibrant image of Jesus and John at the Jordan. It captures a key moment in our faith with warmth and beauty.
You can download this image for use in your parish bulletin, newsletter, or ministry handout. A great visual reminder of Jesus’ mission and God’s blessing.
Paid subscribers may download a large copy this digital artwork (without watermarks) free of charge by clicking here. You must be logged in as a paid subscriber to access the file.
Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.
If you would like this image to be made available as a specific product (card, poster, mug, etc.) or as an extra high resolution image for personal use just post a comment about what you want and we will create a link to our online store for you.
Pope Francis
Music Suggestions for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
These music selections reflect the themes of baptism, renewal, and our identity as children of God in the Baptism of the Lord Year A. Many songs focus on water as a symbol of cleansing, healing, and the new life we receive through Christ. Other selections highlight Jesus’ role as the Lamb of God and the fulfillment of God’s promises. The music also invites us to reflect on the Holy Spirit’s presence and the joy of being part of God’s family. Together, these songs help us enter into the spirit of the readings and the celebration of Jesus’ baptism.
- After the Lord Was Baptized by Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart & Curtis Stephan
- Behold the Lamb of God by Matt Maher
- By the Love of God by Tom Booth
- Come to the River by Bob Hurd, Craig Kingsbury, Dominic MacAller & Ken Canedo
- Come to the Water by John Foley
- Gather at the Water by Sarah Hart
- Healing Waters by Trevor Thomson
- I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light by Kathleen Thomerson
- Love Has Come by Matt Maher
- O Breathe on Me, O Breath of God by Edwin Hatch
- Oceans by Hillsong United
- Of the Father’s Love Begotten by Marcus Aurelius Clemens Prudentius
- On Jordan’s Bank
- Open the Heavens by Meredith Andrews
- Praise to You, O Christ, Our Savior by Bernadette Farrell
- Shall We Gather at the River by Robert Lowry
- The Lord Will Bless His People by Tom Booth
- Psalm 29: The Lord Will Bless His People with Peace by Louis Canter
- Wade in the Water
- We Belong to You by Trevor Thomson & Victoria Thomson
- When Jesus Comes to Be Baptized
- With Joy You Shall Draw Water by Bob Hurd
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the Baptism of the Lord Year A. These songs can deepen the prayer experience of the liturgy and inspire reflection. Share your thoughts and suggest other songs in the comments to help others celebrate this important feast.
Questions and Answers for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
Why was Jesus baptized if He was without sin?
Jesus was baptized to show humility and obedience to the Father. His baptism also showed that He was joining with sinners to save them and begin His mission.
What does the first reading teach about Jesus?
The first reading speaks about God’s chosen servant, who brings justice and hope. This reminds us that Jesus was sent to bring peace and healing to the world.
What does the second reading teach about the Holy Spirit?
The second reading shows the Holy Spirit giving Jesus the power to do God’s work. It reminds us that the Holy Spirit strengthens us to live out our faith.
Why is the Holy Spirit important in the Baptism of the Lord Year A?
The Holy Spirit shows that Jesus is set apart for His mission. It also reminds us that we receive the Holy Spirit to help us live as God’s children.
What does the Gospel show about Jesus’ relationship with God the Father?
The Gospel shows the Father’s love and approval of Jesus as His beloved Son. This reminds us that Jesus was sent by the Father to fulfill His mission to save us.
How does the Baptism of the Lord Year A connect to our own baptism?
Jesus’ baptism reminds us of our own baptism, where we are joined to Him and called to follow His example. It teaches us to live as God’s children and serve others.
What does the first reading mean by bringing light to the nations?
The first reading says Jesus is sent to bring hope to all people. It reminds us that we are called to share His light with others.
How can we follow Jesus’ example from the Baptism of the Lord Year A?
We can follow Jesus by being humble and obedient to God. We can also help others and live in a way that shows God’s love.
What does the Father’s voice mean in the Gospel?
The Father’s voice shows that Jesus is His beloved Son, chosen for His mission. This reminds us that Jesus is sent by God to save the world.
Why is the Baptism of the Lord Year A important for our faith?
The Baptism of the Lord Year A shows the beginning of Jesus’ mission to save us. It also reminds us to trust in God’s plan and live out our baptism.
The Beginning of Jesus’ Mission
The Baptism of the Lord Year A marks the start of Jesus’ public mission. It shows His obedience to God and His choice to stand with sinners. Jesus steps into the Jordan River, and the Holy Spirit comes upon Him like a dove. God the Father speaks, showing His love and approval of His Son.
In the first reading, God describes His chosen servant who will bring justice and hope to all people. This points to Jesus as the one sent to heal and guide. The second reading shows how Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit to bring peace and salvation.
The Gospel reveals Jesus’ humility and the Father’s love for Him. Jesus’ baptism shows His connection to sinners and His willingness to save them. It reminds us of our own baptism, where we become God’s children and are called to follow Jesus.
The Baptism of the Lord Year A invites us to think about Jesus’ mission and our role in sharing His light. It is a call to live humbly, trust in God, and serve others as Jesus did.
Your Turn
The Baptism of the Lord Year A helps us reflect on Jesus’ mission and our own call to live as God’s children. Spend time reading the Scripture passages and think about what they mean in your life. How does Jesus’ example of humility and service inspire you?
Consider your own baptism and the ways you can share God’s love with others. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Let’s learn from one another and grow in faith.
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