The Love Shines Through in Baptism

I have been living and working at St. Anne’s for a month as of today – and what a month it has been. I have learned much about parish ministry, working with different cultural communities and the “ins and outs” of priestly living and work. Needless to say, there is much more for me to learn but these have been good days and hopefully will continue to be in the months ahead.

One of the many “new” areas I have worked at St. Anne’s is the Baptism Ministry. One to two nights a week, I help the staff here interview parents who come to the Church seeking baptism for their child. I must tell you, at first, I did not think this would be that engaging. Yet it has been a wonderful opportunity to understand the power of the sacraments of the Church and the real desire of so many to be more involved in the life of the Church. It has been a real source of hope for me!

First, I have come to see and better understand the “requirements” for Baptism for the Church. This can sometimes be a challenge for those unfamiliar with the Church in general, or the Church in America, particularly for those new to the country. It is an opportunity for learning and formation and has actually, in my limited experience, encouraged some families to approach the sacrament differently. For example, they might reconsider why they originally considered a certain person to be a godfather or godmother. It has brought about some good dialogue, even between the two parents at the interview itself.

Second, and most exciting for me, it is wonderful to see the enthusiasm that young families bring with them to this meeting. They’re excited and want this beautiful sacrament for their child. It’s also good, for one who does not understand parenthood firsthand, to see this excitement and enthusiasm as well as the challenges that come with this vital vocation in the life of the Church. How affirming and wonderful it is to see the person you met on Wednesday search you out at Mass on Sunday to say hello and to see them “parenting in action”.

Third, it’s a reminder to build on that enthusiasm. It can sometimes be easy to get caught in the cynicism. Baptisms are celebrated every Saturday at St. Anne’s and they are filled through October. It would be dishonest to say that all who come to the interview are actively engaged in the life of the parish. Yet, what a tremendous opportunity for the evangelizing and welcoming spirit – the love - of the Church to shine through. Gently inviting these families to become involved in the life of St. Anne’s receives a range of reactions – some positive, some not so much. Yet, I hope and pray, that the gentle spirit of welcome and hospitality offered in these moments might serve as an inspiration and reminder of the Church that is always calling people to come home.

What a great experience this continues to be!