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🕊️The Baptism of the Lord
January 8, 2024
MORNING MESSAGE
“The steadfast of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.”
-Lamentations 3:22-23 (RSV-CE)
Good Morning! Welcome to a Monday! As we begin this new week, may we be reminded of this verse. Great is His faithfulness! Have a blessed day! Thank you for spending part of your morning with us!
- Catholic Captions Team
DAILY MASS READINGS
Readings from Today’s Holy Mass

The Baptism of the Lord
First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7
Responsorial: Isaiah 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6
Alleluia: John 1:29
Gospel Reading: Mark 1: 7-11
REFLECTIONS
Gospel Reflection on Mark 1:7-11

The Baptism of Jesus
In Mark 1:7-11, we witness a profound moment as John the Baptist announces the coming of Jesus, recognizing his own unworthiness in comparison. Despite this, Jesus humbly approaches John to be baptized in the Jordan River. As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, and God's voice declares, "You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased."
This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of Jesus' baptism. It symbolizes His identification with humanity, His humility, and His obedience to God's plan.
As we contemplate this scene, may we be reminded of the importance of humility in our own lives. Just as Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit, we too are called to live as beloved children of God, seeking to please Him through our faith and obedience. Let us draw inspiration from Jesus' baptism to embrace our identity as beloved sons and daughters of the Most High and strive to walk in His will.
CATHOLIC NEWS
Headlines

✝️ Pope Francis on the Importance of Baptism
Pope Francis emphasized the significance of knowing one's baptism date, equating it to an individual's rebirth as a Christian. He urged the faithful to recognize and celebrate this date as a key moment in their spiritual lives.
📖Epiphany Amidst Conflict in Bethlehem
The annual reenactment of the Epiphany in Bethlehem, led by Franciscan friars, occurred with a notably smaller crowd due to the ongoing war. The solemn event marked the conclusion of Christmas celebrations and featured the traditional offering of incense and myrrh to the faithful, against a backdrop of deserted streets and an absence of pilgrims.
⚜️New Orleans Saints Owner Supports Catholic Education
Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints, has provided a substantial donation to support the expansion of Good Shepherd School in New Orleans, enabling it to open a second location. This contribution will enhance the school's mission of offering quality education to low-income families in the city.
SAINTLY STORIES
Saint Thorfinn: A Beacon of Holiness from the North

St. Thorfinn
Saint Thorfinn, a lesser-known but deeply revered figure in Catholic history, was a Norwegian bishop in the 13th century. His life, marked by piety and dedication to the Church, offers a unique glimpse into the Christian heritage of Scandinavia. Thorfinn's tenure as Bishop of Hamar was during a period of political turmoil, but he remained a steadfast spiritual leader, known for his fairness and compassion.
Exiled due to conflict with the Norwegian king, Thorfinn spent his final days in Belgium, where his devotion continued to inspire. After his death in 1285, numerous miracles were reported at his grave, leading to his veneration as a saint. Though details of his life are sparse, Thorfinn's legacy as a man of virtue and faith endures.
His feast day, celebrated on January 8th, serves as a reminder of the universal call to holiness, transcending geographical and temporal boundaries. Saint Thorfinn's story encourages us to persevere in faith, regardless of life's challenges, and to remain committed to the principles of justice and charity.
DIVINE DIVERSIONS
Word Scramble

Theme: Words associated with the Baptism of the Lord
1. PTZABIE
2. NARJDO
3. NEHAEV
4. OVED
5. ECOIV
6. AWRET
7. TRISIP
Answers Below
“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
- Psalm 118:24 (RSV-CE)
ANSWERS
Word Scramble Answers
Here's the list with the unscrambled words and reasons for their use:
1. BAPTIZE: John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the Jordan River.
2. JORDAN: The river where Jesus was baptized.
3. HEAVEN: The heavens opened when Jesus was baptized.
4. DOVE: Symbolizes the Holy Spirit that descended like a dove on Jesus.
5. VOICE: Represents the voice of God heard during the baptism.
6. WATER: The medium used for the baptism.
7. SPIRIT: Refers to the Holy Spirit that descended upon Jesus.
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FINAL THOUGHTS
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