Sermon for the Feast of the Epiphany

The lecture begins with a greeting on the Feast of Epiphany, then explains the symbolism of water in John’s baptism, where water represented washing and purification from sin in preparation for the New Covenant.
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance only, aimed at spiritual cleansing, as reflected in practices such as washing before communion and Christ washing His disciples’ feet.
The baptism of Christ, however, goes beyond external washing, as it is a true participation in Christ’s death and resurrection, as taught in the Holy Scriptures.
Through baptism, the old man dies, freedom from original sin is granted, and a new man rises in the image of Christ.
Baptism is a new birth of water and the Spirit, in which the Holy Spirit renews the whole person.
The text explains that the Good Thief received the essence of baptism through his real death with Christ, as did the martyrs through what is known as the “baptism of blood.”
Baptism is one in essence, whether through water and the Spirit or through martyrdom, because it is based on confessing Christ’s death and resurrection.
Through baptism, we become children of God, members of the Church, and recipients of the blessings of redemption and participation in the life of Christ.
The text concludes with a call to reflect on the greatness of this sacrament, especially when baptizing children, and to understand the profound blessings associated with it.

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