The ChristmasEpiphany season officially comes to a close with today the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Ordinary Time resumes tomorrow (Monday, January 10 th ) and goes until Tuesday, March 1st (Mardi Gras). Today’s feast celebrates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan by John the Baptist. When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove and a voice from the heavens rang out, “You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.” No dove was seen, or voice heard when we were baptized, yet the Holy Spirit did descend upon us in baptism and we were welcomed into this holy family, initiated into the body of Christ.
The second collection this weekend supports the Church in Latin America. For many living in Latin America and the Caribbean, rising secular culture, difficult rural terrain, and a shortage of ministers make it difficult for people to practice the faith. Your donations fund catechesis, marriage and family life programs, and seminarian formation, so that people can grow closer to Christ. Please prayerfully consider supporting this collection to share your faith with our brothers and sisters in Latin America and the Caribbean.