As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, we should note this fact, that through our own Baptism we are anointed priest, prophet, and king as members of the Body of Jesus Christ. This means we are all called to live the priesthood of Christ, and we also have co-responsibility to keep our faith communities vibrant and living in Christ.

Baptism also calls us to more; a powerful thought as we enter the new year as followers of Christ.

As we enter this new year, many of us carry both hope and concern into the days ahead. Scripture does not ignore our fears or the responsibility we have to protect our families and communities. At the same time, God’s Word consistently reminds us that our faith is revealed in how we treat those who are different, vulnerable, or unknown us.

From the beginning, the people of God were taught to remember their own story. “You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” (Deut. 10:19). Israel’s identity was shaped by knowing what it meant to be without a home or security. That memory was meant to form compassion, not suspicion. Jesus deepened this teaching when He says, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matt. 25:35). Welcoming the stranger is not an optional virtue; it is a mark of discipleship.

This does not mean acting recklessly or ignoring the need for prudence, law, or the safety of our families. Scripture always calls us to be wise. But it is unchristian to reject people simply because they are different, speak another language, or come from another place. Fear and faith cannot guide us at the same time.

As the Baptized in Christ, the Word of God we hear week after week offers us balance: courage without naivete, compassion without indifference. As we begin this year, let us remember our own Baptism and what this means for us as we follow Christ. May God give us hearts shaped by scripture to seek justice, practice mercy, and walk humbly with God. This will help us witness in a world longing to see faith lived with both truth and love by those baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

With you a Christian. For you, a priest.

Fr. Carl Morello 
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish