Baptism Stones
The second Sunday of January always marks "Baptism of Our Lord" Sunday within the church calendar - and many congregations choose to do something liturgically around a renewal of our baptismal promises. Near the outset of a new year, this act helps to remind us that our primary identity is being one of God's beloved children, and it also reminds us that in our baptisms we are empowered by the gift of the Holy Spirit to make an impact on this world.
Occasionally renewing our baptism promises involves actually reciting the specific vows that you (or your parents) took at your baptism, but I've always loved the opportunity to say a quick prayer over water, to make a sign of the cross with that water on our and our children's foreheads, and to give each person a clear, flat stone as a reminder of our baptism. These stones can be purchased from a variety of places, but there are two pieces to the symbol: 1. the clear color reminds us of the waters of baptism and 2. the strength of the stone reminds us of God's strong love for us. If you'd like to participate in a similar ritual with your child, feel free to use the prayer below, or ad lib your own!
"Holy God, in the waters of our baptism you remind us of how much you love us - not just now, but always. We are part of your church family - so may you help us to serve all of our brothers and sisters as best we can. May our love for them be as strong as your love for us. Amen."
Occasionally renewing our baptism promises involves actually reciting the specific vows that you (or your parents) took at your baptism, but I've always loved the opportunity to say a quick prayer over water, to make a sign of the cross with that water on our and our children's foreheads, and to give each person a clear, flat stone as a reminder of our baptism. These stones can be purchased from a variety of places, but there are two pieces to the symbol: 1. the clear color reminds us of the waters of baptism and 2. the strength of the stone reminds us of God's strong love for us. If you'd like to participate in a similar ritual with your child, feel free to use the prayer below, or ad lib your own!
"Holy God, in the waters of our baptism you remind us of how much you love us - not just now, but always. We are part of your church family - so may you help us to serve all of our brothers and sisters as best we can. May our love for them be as strong as your love for us. Amen."