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Anniversary of Baptism Milestone |
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About Anniversary of Baptism Milestone
Too often we think of our baptism as an event instead of a way of living one’s life. Baptism is the beginning of a lifelong faith journey. There is a daily rhythm of death and resurrection (see Romans 6:3-4) in one’s baptism that involves the confession of our sinfulness and God’s action of forgiveness and steadfast love. That daily dying and rising gives birth to a life of thanksgiving, generosity and faith active in love. Baptism is the foundation for how we live as Christians.
It is common practice in congregations to give gifts to the individual being baptized: a candle, a shell, napkin, banner, handmade blanket, or a FaithChest®. How does your congregation equip individuals and families to use these gifts in daily life? How are the newly baptized reminded of their baptism?
The Anniversary of Baptism Milestone is an opportunity to remind everyone that living our baptism is a lifelong journey—and one needs to be prepared to live and walk wet!
It is common practice in congregations to give gifts to the individual being baptized: a candle, a shell, napkin, banner, handmade blanket, or a FaithChest®. How does your congregation equip individuals and families to use these gifts in daily life? How are the newly baptized reminded of their baptism?
The Anniversary of Baptism Milestone is an opportunity to remind everyone that living our baptism is a lifelong journey—and one needs to be prepared to live and walk wet!
Why this Milestone?
The Anniversary of Baptism Milestone incorporates a simple structure that includes:
- Naming – It is important to recognize baptism and celebrating the anniversary of baptism as a vital step to affirm and support one’s faith journey.
- Equipping – Families, friends and the congregation are given the opportunity to celebrate and practice how we, as Christians, live our baptismal journey daily.
- Blessing – The blessing bestows on the participants an experience and a reminder of the beauty and saving gift of baptism for individuals, households and the entire congregation.
- Gifting – You may give an item to use as a physical reminder of this occasion, such as a candle, Anniversary of Baptism Stone or Milestone Blessing Bowl.
- Reinforcing – Follow up after the Anniversary of Baptism Milestone by connecting this group one more time to tell faith stories and give a report about the service projects they decided on at the Cross+Generational Event. The Anniversary of Baptism Milestone
Baptisms at PCPC