God comes to us at baptism, purifies and makes us his – Pope on Feast of Baptism of the Lord

Pope Francis has urged the faithful to cherish the anniversary of their baptisms, equating it to the celebration of a birthday.

He emphasized the profound significance of baptism, declaring it as the moment when God enters into individuals, purifies and heals their hearts, forever marking them as His children and heirs to the kingdom of heaven.

During his Sunday Angelus on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, on January 7, the Holy Father said, “At baptism, it is God who comes into us, purifies and heals our heart, makes us forever His children, His people and family, heirs to Paradise,” Pope Francis emphasized, urging everyone to reflect on the immense gift bestowed upon them through this sacred sacrament.

On the occasion of the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which commemorates Jesus’ baptism by St. John the Baptist in the Jordan River, Pope Francis spoke passionately about the importance of acknowledging and celebrating one’s baptism.

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Earlier in the day, he personally baptized 16 infants in the Sistine Chapel, describing baptism as “the most beautiful gift” parents can give to their children.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, he noted, describes baptism as the foundation of the entire Christian life, serving as the gateway to life in the Spirit and the key to accessing other sacraments.

During his Angelus address, the Pope emphasized that each sign of the cross serves as a reminder of one’s baptism, imprinting the memory of God’s grace and love.

Pope Francis encouraged believers to ponder whether they acknowledge the light of God’s presence in their lives, recognizing themselves as beloved sons and daughters.

Expressing gratitude for parents who brought them to the baptismal font, he urged everyone to remember the date of their baptism, comparing it to a new birthday and a rebirth into the life of grace.