Oh how I laughed at this picture! But as we celebrated the baptism of our Lord on Monday, I thought of my own. It was interesting that John felt unworthy to be the one who baptized Jesus, but Jesus insisted. Just like my parents who insisted that I be baptized. And to have that happen by a Vincentian priest in our home parish of St. Patrick’s in LaSalle, Illinois was an added blessing as the Vincentians had an influence on my life as a Vincentian priest. I think of all the joy and blessings from both my baptism and ordination.
Without that insistence of my parents to bring me to Church, I would have missed out on some unique blessings and joy. I will never be able to repay Mom and Dad so I will just settle for a few extra prayers of gratitude to them just like John did to Jesus. Maybe today you too can thank and pray for those who brought you to Church.