Members of St Boniface Catholic Church celebrated the Baptism of the Lord on January 11, 2009. This feast might be seen as the summary of the entire liturgical year. Fr. Luke blessed the water to be used to remind us all of our own baptism.

In his homily, Fr. Luke told of the customs at the time of the Baptism of Jesus. Baptism was seen as the cleansing of impurity and sinfulness. Why did Jesus, as man and as a Jew get baptized? According to some church leaders, He was baptized to identify Himself with the Jewish people. Three significant things occurred at His Baptism. The heavens were torn open, the Spirit descended, and the Voice of God the Father was heard.

Jesus transcended the barrier of sinfulness created by man, Jesus was empowered by the Spirit for His mission, and the voice of His Father explains His identity as the Son of God. The reality of our baptism is that all these things take place! We are no longer slaves to sin; our relationship is re-established. We are empowered to evangelize, beginning with ourselves. We are the beloved, free children of God. Our mission is to continue to be the free child of God. Once we were slaves and now we are free! Rejoice!

Following the Eucharist, refreshments were served. Members who had pledged to purchase the stain glass windows for the church met briefly to review designs following the chosen theme of the Blessed Sacraments plus the window dedicated to St. Boniface.

A special study series on St. Paul begins on January 14th and continues for six weeks. We will meet in the community room from 6:45 until 8:00 pm. Please join us.

There will be a training session for all Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors (both new and those already serving) on January 22nd at 7:00 pm. It is important that everyone attends this session.

Our next Youth Mass will be January 25th at the 9:30 Mass. Preparations will be made on the next two Wednesday evenings.

Please remember to keep your membership information current. There are bi-lingual registration forms available with Fr. Luke.

Congratulations and best wishes to all who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. We pray for those who are sick and suffering. Remember, too, the souls of the faithful departed; may they rest in peace.

We continue to pray for the safety of the men and women in the Armed Services. May our Heavenly Father keep them safe from all harm.

Have a blessed week!