ON THE COVER:
Symbols of baptism into
one Body through the Spirit. |
From
Inside
ML: We don’t take baptism very seriously at all. We should, because
it defines us, connects us, names us, gives us purpose, and ultimately
admits us into heaven. We treat it very carelessly indeed. Among the sacraments,
for the most part, baptism is the poor relative. In our parish community
settings, for Eucharist, confirmation, and matrimony, we have huge gatherings,
visiting clergy, parties, and presents. For holy orders one would think
royalty had been crowned, the fuss that is made for ordinations and first
Masses. For penance we preach and pound the pulpit and devote special classes
to the formation of young children so that their heinous sins of tattling
and teasing might be forgiven. We make elaborate arrangements so that our
sick may be comforted, consoled, and anointed, as well they should be;
our presence to those who suffer in illness should be more of a priority
than it is in so many places. But until post-conciliar restoration of the
Easter Vigil brought a better understanding of the vital role of the catechumenate
and baptism in the community life of the church, the most common experience
of the sacrament was that of infants hidden away in the baptistry. Even
now, although baptism is declared to be a community event, we seem to lack
a true understanding of what that means. (More) |
