The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, also known as Epiphany, is celebrated in Christian tradition to commemorate the moment when Jesus Christ was baptised by John the Baptist in the waters of the River Jordan. This feast is of great importance in the liturgical calendar, marking the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and symbolising his identification with humanity.
The event of Jesus' baptism is narrated in the Gospels, particularly in the books of Matthew, Mark and Luke. John the Baptist, an ascetic prophet, proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. When Jesus came to him to be baptised, John initially hesitated, recognising Jesus' purity and holiness. However, Jesus insisted, saying it was necessary to fulfill all righteousness.
The moment when Jesus was immersed in the water of the Jordan is considered a significant event in Christ's life. As he emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended in the form of a dove, resting on Jesus. Then a voice from heaven rang out, proclaiming, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
This manifestation of the Trinity, with the presence of God the Father, the Holy Spirit and Jesus the Son, marked the beginning of Jesus' public mission. Baptism symbolised not only cleansing and repentance, but also the beginning of a new era, when Jesus would begin to teach, heal and reveal the divine nature to people.
The feast of the baptism of Jesus is celebrated in many branches of Christianity on 6 January, 12 days after Christmas, as part of the season of Epiphany. It is an opportunity for the faithful to remember the theological significance of this event and to meditate on the meaning of baptism in their own spiritual lives.
Some Church traditions also celebrate Epiphany as the revelation of Jesus to the nations, emphasising the universality of his message. On this day, the faithful may participate in special religious services, processions and blessings of holy water to recall the baptism of Jesus. The symbols of water, the dove and the heavenly voice are often highlighted during these celebrations, reinforcing the depth and spirituality of the event.
Beyond the liturgy, the feast of the baptism of Jesus reminds believers of the need for spiritual purification, repentance and commitment to God. It is also an invitation to follow Jesus' example by seeking justice and devoting oneself to God's will. In celebrating this feast, Christians are called to renew their own commitment to their faith and to remember that, just as Jesus was baptised in water, they too are called to live a life in accordance with God's will.
