Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
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.
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.
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.
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 A.
Resources for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
Sunday January 11, 2026
Beloved – A Baptism Lesson Plan
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of the importance of baptism in our lives. This lesson plan helps young people understand baptism as more than a ceremony. It shows how baptism marks us as God’s beloved children and connects us to His family, the Church. The readings highlight Jesus’ baptism as the beginning of His mission, and this lesson challenges youth to see their own baptism as a call to live with love, faith, and purpose. By reflecting on their baptism, they can grow in their understanding of God’s love and their role in His plan.
Baptism Word Search Puzzle
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of the importance of baptism as the beginning of our life with God. A word search puzzle can be a fun way to teach children about this special sacrament. By finding words like “cross” and “holy water,” they learn the symbols and meaning of baptism. Just as Jesus’ baptism marked the start of His mission, our baptism welcomes us into God’s family and calls us to live as His children. This activity helps young learners connect with their faith and better understand the sacrament of baptism in a simple, joyful way.
Drip Drip Drop Game
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of the role of water in God’s plan for renewal and new life. Drip Drip Drop is a fun game that can help youth connect with the idea of baptism in an interactive way. As water is poured during the game, it can symbolize the cleansing and grace we receive through baptism. Just as Jesus’ baptism marked the start of His mission, the game can remind young people of their call to live as God’s children. This simple activity ties fun and faith together, teaching Biblical themes in a playful setting.
Water Drop Race
The Baptism of the Lord Year A highlights how water symbolizes new life and God’s grace. The Water Drop Race is a fun game that can help youth explore these themes. As they guide a water drop carefully across wax paper, they can reflect on how baptism carries us forward in faith. The water drop sticking together can remind them of unity and the strength we find in community. Just as Jesus’ baptism marked the start of His mission, this activity can encourage discussions about how baptism calls us to live with purpose and stay connected to God and others.
Paper Plate Dove Craft
The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us of the Holy Spirit descending like a dove upon Jesus. A paper plate dove craft is a simple way to introduce a discussion about the Holy Spirit’s role in our faith. This craft helps children connect the image of the dove with the readings and the sacrament of baptism. Just as the Spirit empowered Jesus for His mission, the Holy Spirit guides and strengthens us in our daily lives. Creating a dove can serve as a reminder of God’s presence and the peace and grace we receive through the Holy Spirit.
The Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7, the first reading for the Baptism of the Lord Year A, speaks of God’s servant chosen to bring justice and hope to the world. This ties to Isaiah’s larger theme of God’s plan to restore His people and save all nations. The servant is called to lead with gentleness, heal the broken, and free captives, showing God’s care for everyone. At Jesus’ baptism, He is revealed as this servant, fulfilling Isaiah’s promise of a Savior. The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us that Jesus came to bring light and renewal, just as Isaiah foretold.
Psalm 29
Psalm 29, used in the Baptism of the Lord Year A, celebrates the power and glory of God, whose voice is over the waters. This connects to the Gospel, where the voice of the Father declares Jesus as His beloved Son during His baptism. The psalm reminds us of God’s authority and the peace He brings to His people. It also reflects the theme of water as a symbol of cleansing and renewal in baptism. The Baptism of the Lord Year A shows how Jesus’ mission begins with water and God’s blessing, calling us to live as His people in peace.
Acts of the Apostles
Acts 10:34-38, read during the Baptism of the Lord Year A, highlights how Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit and sent to bring peace and healing. This connects to a larger theme in Acts of God’s salvation being offered to all people, not just Israel. Peter’s speech emphasizes that God shows no favoritism and accepts everyone who follows Him. At Jesus’ baptism, He is revealed as the Savior for all, fulfilling this message of inclusion. The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us that, through Jesus, God calls every person to receive His grace and live in peace.
The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew 3:13-17, the Gospel for the Baptism of the Lord Year A, highlights Jesus’ obedience to God and His role in fulfilling righteousness. This connects to Matthew’s larger theme of Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises and the one who leads by example. Jesus’ baptism reveals His identity as God’s beloved Son and marks the start of His mission. The presence of the Holy Spirit and the voice of the Father show the unity of God’s plan. The Baptism of the Lord Year A reminds us that Jesus humbly chose to stand with sinners to bring salvation to all.
Homilies and Reflections 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.
More Thoughts 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?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the Baptism of the Lord Year A
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
What date is the Baptism of the Lord Year A?
The next date is Sunday January 11, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
Baptism of the Lord Year B
Baptism of the Lord Year C
What are the Mass readings for the Baptism of the Lord Year A?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday January 11, 2026 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7: The Lord’s Chosen Servant
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 29: The Lord’s Blessing of Peace
Second Reading – Acts 10:34-38: Peter’s Message at Cornelius’ House
Gospel – Matthew 3:13-17: Jesus’ Baptism at the Jordan
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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