The Diocese of Allentown celebrated the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, held on Jan. 9 this year, during which time the church remembers the example Jesus Christ set through receiving water baptism at the hand of his cousin, John the Baptist.

The feast of the Baptism of Our Lord, also known as the Theophany, marks the end of the Christmas season, according to Catholic Culture. 

“Praise be Jesus Christ!" the Diocese of Allentown posted on its Facebook page. "As we conclude our Christmas Season, Holy Mother Church calls us to reflect upon the beginning of the Lord's public ministry to usher us into a deeper reflection about the mysteries of Christ during Ordinary Time.

"First, John the Baptist is recognizing who he is, he is not the Messiah but points towards the Messiah who will baptize with 'water and fire' (Lk 3:16). Then, like so many in the crowd, Christ is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This Baptism marked the beginning of Christ's public ministry. In a practical way, this baptism marks the transition from Christ's private life with Mary and Joseph and into the public life as the Messiah.

"This newness of purpose is also present in our baptism as well. When we were baptized, we turned from being a potential follower of Christ to being claimed for Him: the beginning of our discipleship in Christ. Therefore, we turn from the tragedy of sin to the victory of redemption.

"As we conclude the Christmas Season, let us recommit ourselves to the public, courageous witness of Christ in our daily lives, whether that be at work, home, or school. Quite a New Year's resolution worthy of keeping!”

According to Bible Gateway, the Gospel of Matthew describes the event when Jesus presented himself to St. John the Baptizer, who was in the Jordan River baptizing those who wished to be cleansed of their sins. During this pivotal moment in the start of Jesus’ earthly ministry, the Holy Spirit descended from Heaven in the form of a dove and the voice of God the Father spoke. 

“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.  But John tried to deter him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?' Jesus replied, 'Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.' Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'” Matthew 3: 3-17.

Now that the Christmas season is over, the period of Ordinary Time will continue until Lent.