On This Day {Triple Baptism Anniversary}

Flashback Friday

Today, Tim, Zachary and I each celebrate our baptism anniversary, on the feast day of St. Thomas Aquinas.


Did you know that each time someone is baptized in the Catholic Church, the congregation has the opportunity to renew baptismal promises?  That's right!  So although I might not remember my own baptism (since I was only two weeks old), I am continually reminded of the promises that were made on my behalf by my parents and Godparents on this day, the day I was reborn in Christ.  By my active participation in the liturgy, I am given the chance to renew these powerful promises in light of the call to be a priest, prophet and king for Christ.  I praise God every day for my parents' faith and for the best gift they every gave me, the gift of the sacrament of baptism!

V. Do you reject Satan? 
R. I do. 
V. And all his works? 
R. I do. 
V. And all his empty promises? 
R. I do. 
V. Do you believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth? 
R. I do. 
V. Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary was crucified, died, and was buried, rose from the dead, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father? 
R. I do. 
V. Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting? 
R. I do. 
V. God, the all-powerful Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has given us a new birth by water and the Holy Spirit, and forgiven all our sins. May he also keep us faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ for ever and ever. 
R. Amen. 

I also found a great prayer at Catholic.org for the renewal of baptismal promises:

Lord Jesus Christ, I acknowledge you as King of the universe. All creation was made for you. Exercise all your sovereign rights over me. I renew my baptismal promises, renouncing Satan and all his works and empty promises, and I promise to lead a good Christian life. I will try to bring about the recognition of the truth of God and your Church. Divine Heart of Jesus, I offer all my actions that every human heart may accept your kingship. May the kingdom of your peace be established across the world.

Saint Thomas Aquinas, pray for us!