11 January.Baptism of the Lord.  SEE.  Fr Sylvester said to the congregation. “Jesus did not really need to be baptised, as baptism is a forgiveness of sins. But it is also a sign of being called as a child of God to live Jesus’ mission of mercy and compassion wherever you are. The Father’s voice will be heard differently by different people, each called to live it in the best way they can.”  He looked around and smiled. “Now, don’t forget to keep a healthy balance between strengthening your family at home and going out to do good works. I particularly want to say this to you members of the sodalities.  Please do go and think about that.”

JUDGE, reflect and share:  Scripture: “The heavens opened and the Father’s voice resounded:  This is my Son, the Beloved. Listen to him.” Pope Francis: You can’t have a family without dreams. Baptism is part of that dream. With their prayers parents prepare for baptism, entrusting their baby to Jesus even before he or she is born. AL 168.   Pope Leo: Alongside action, it is more necessary than ever to cultivate prayer, spirituality, and ecumenical and interreligious dialogue as paths of peace and as languages of encounter within traditions and cultures. Throughout the world, it is to be hoped that “every community become a ‘house of peace,’ where one learns how to defuse hostility through dialogue, where justice is practiced and forgiveness is cherished.” [11] Now more than ever, we must show that peace is not a utopia by fostering attentive and life-giving pastoral creativity.  PM 1 Jan.

ACT.  Decide on possible appropriate action.  Reflect and share memories and stories of family baptisms. Conclude with prayer.