Primary Session
Matthew 3:13-17
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear God, thank you for sharing your life with us at Baptism.
Help us to always live as your children.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is Baptism and mission. Begin by inviting the children to create cards for those who will be baptized, welcoming them into the Church family. Provide each child with a sheet of white paper and crayons. To help them design the card, brainstorm with the children the symbols used at Baptism. Discuss:
- What do you know about your Baptism?
- How does the Church show how much it cares for its new members?
- How do you live as a member of the Church family?
Allow time for discussion. At Baptism we become members of our Church family. We also become followers of Jesus.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Gospel today listen to find out what happens when Jesus is baptized.
Read Matthew 3:13-17.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- How is Jesus baptized?
- Why does John baptize Jesus?
- What happens when Jesus is baptized?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel using the Catechist Background section.
Today the Church celebrates the Baptism of the Lord. The baptism of Jesus shows his humanity. We hear about the humanity of Jesus throughout the Christmas season. The celebration of the baptism of Jesus marks the end of the Christmas season. After Jesus is baptized, he begins his public ministry. Today’s Gospel helps us understand the meaning of the sacrament of Baptism for all Christians.
This Gospel presents the baptism of Jesus. Jesus comes to John to be baptized. John questions Jesus at first because he thinks that Jesus should be the one baptizing him. Jesus tells John to baptize him in order to fulfill what he has come to do. When Jesus comes up from the water, the heavens open and Jesus is revealed as God’s Son, the beloved.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- What does the Baptism of Jesus tell us about Jesus?
- How was Jesus’ baptism like our baptism?
- What does Baptism help us to do?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Baptism and Mission
In the Sacrament of Baptism we are joined to Jesus Christ and we are joined to the Church. We become members of the Church and followers of Jesus. In Baptism we begin a new life that will be lived in the Spirit.
Water is the main symbol used in Baptism. The term “baptism” comes from the Greek word to “plunge” or “immerse.” At our baptism we plunge into the water of new life. In Baptism all our sin is washed away.
Catholics understand that through Baptism we are called to live holy lives. The Holy Spirit helps us to live as followers of Jesus.
- How do we become members of the Catholic Church?
- What does water symbolize in Baptism?
- How does baptism help us to live as followers of Jesus?
The Gospel in Life
Welcome a newly baptized member of the Church family by sending the card that you made.
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 7
Kindergarten, chapter 15
Grade 1, chapter 11
Grade 2, chapter 12
Grade 3, chapter 12
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