During Holy Week we “reclaimed the treasures of our baptismal identity” by exploring the meaning of various symbols in John’s Gospel. The aromatic anointing oil, for example, was a sign of the of God’s holy power passing down upon the anointed. Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet modeled the extravagant, passionate devotion of one who is baptized to follow the way of Jesus. The seed that must die before it can bear fruit (Jn. 12:23ff) reminded us that, in Baptism, we have died with Christ and are raised with him to walk in newness of life (Ro. 6:4).
Our Gospel lesson today (Jn 20:19-31) is also rich in baptismal imagery: Jesus imparts the Holy Spirit to the disciples and sends them out. This is John’s way of describing the Baptismal Commission (c.f. Mt. 28:19-20)[1].
Sustaining our “Baptismal Identity” is vital if we are to remain faithful followers of Jesus. That is why the Font has been placed at the entrance to the Sanctuary[2]. It is a reminder that we are sent into the world in the power of the Holy Spirit to bear “much fruit” (Jn. 15:8).
God Bless,
Sean
[1] John Suggit, The Sign of Life
[2] There is water in the font. It is not “holy water”. You are free to scoop the water through your fingers as a reminder of your identity. Children especially find this helpful.