Dearly Beloved in Christ,

John the Baptist denied that he was the Messiah.  His baptism was a baptism of repentance, but one was coming who would provide a different baptism: "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

We are the inheritors of that promise.  Before his Ascension the Lord commanded his disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matt 28:18)  That command of our Lord has been handed down to his church. The outward and visible sign of water, in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, signifies the inward and spiritual grace that God gives: "union with Christ in his death and resurrection, birth into God's family - the church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit." (BCP 858) 

This is part of the mystery of what God does for us in Baptism, but there are sacred vows that we have made at Baptism, or that were made on our behalf, but are binding on us: we have renounced all the works of darkness and have turned to the light of Christ, trusting in Him and obedient to Him.

These covenant vows remain with us once we leave the font, in fact they are to shape every day of our lives:

 

Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers?

 

Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?

 

Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?

 

Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?

 

Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?

 

Our response at every Baptism is "I will, with God's help."  It is why the collect asks that God grant us the ability to keep the covenant we have made.  May He do so.

In the Peace, Grace, and Love of our Lord,
Rev'd Sarah+ 

You might actually have been around for a while, but still have some questions on why we do what we do on a Sunday morning (or Saturday evening), and what are some of the programs/ministries that are going on at Good Shepherd.  Or you might have some other questions about the church - don't worry you won't be the first to have that question!
Our Newcomers' Commission has scheduled a three week series to try and address those questions, and to get to know you.  Please come and bring your questions!

Millie Dzurus, Rose Thatcher, Bob Bieloh, Betsy Campbell, Jim Sutton, Martha Bryant-Hall, Joe Small, Tara Baril