Dear brothers and sisters: In our continuing catechesis on Baptism, we now turn to the central action of the baptismal rite. Through the pouring of water and the invocation of the Blessed Trinity, we are “immersed” in the mystery of Christ’s death and rising to new life. Thus reborn, we become a new creation, passing from the corruption of sin to eternal life. In Christ, and by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we are made adoptive children of the Father, with the Church as our spiritual mother. This relationship is definitive and is sealed by an indelible mark on the soul. Henceforth, as members of Christ’s body, we are committed to avoid sin and to conform our lives ever more fully to him. Following our rebirth in the waters of baptism, we are anointed with sacred chrism as a sign of our sharing in Christ’s role as priest, prophet and king. As members of God’s priestly people, we are called to offer our lives daily as a sacrifice pleasing to him. As a royal and prophetic people, we are called to proclaim Christ’s kingship by our witness of faith and love, and our commitment to imitate him in loving service to our brothers and sisters.

Santo Padre:

Saluto i pellegrini di lingua inglese presenti all’Udienza odierna, specialmente quelli provenienti da Inghilterra, Finlandia, Indonesia, Filippine, Canada e Stati Uniti d’America. Rivolgo un saluto particolare ai “piccoli agricoltori” venuti in Italia da vari paesi, con gratitudine per il loro contributo alla nutrizione di tutti nel nostro mondo. Nella gioia del Cristo Risorto, invoco su di voi e sulle vostre famiglie l’amore misericordioso di Dio nostro Padre. Il Signore vi benedica!

Speaker:

I greet the English-speaking pilgrims and visitors taking part in today’s Audience, particularly those from England, Finland, Indonesia, the Philippines, Canada and the United States of America. In a special way, I greet the “small farmers” from various countries meeting in Italy, with gratitude for their contribution to feeding our world. In the joy of the Risen Christ, I invoke upon you and your families the loving mercy of God our Father. May the Lord bless you all!