Seems I'm able to find a fitting Hutterite Diaries excerpt for almost every occasion. For those that I can't, it's a gentle reminder that perhaps I should write another book.
On Palm Sunday, upon confession of faith and vowing to
remain faithful to God and the church, young people are baptized. Weeks before,
those longing to take this important step of faith receive counseling from
colony leaders. This includes instruction and discussions on what starting a
new life in God means and how this translates into being a faithful,
contributing member of the church community.
In the days leading up to baptism, there are special
teachings from Romans 6 and Matthew 28. This is followed by further instruction
for the baptismal candidates and also a time for reflection and thanksgiving
for all baptized brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Right after the pouring of the water for each person
baptized in the Hutterian church comes this benediction:
Since God in His
grace has been merciful to you and through the death of Jesus Christ His only
begotten Son, and the intercession of the church has forgiven and remitted your
sins, may He fill you with the powers from on high and write your name in the book
of eternal life. May He keep you as a true brother/sister in the church to
serve Jesus until the end. Amen.
This is one of the most powerful benedictions I know. It
confirms the words of Peter: “And this water symbolizes baptism that now saves
you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear
conscience toward God” (1 Peter 3:21).
Each time I witness a baptism, my mind goes back in time
when I was part of the group kneeling in front of the congregation. Remembering
the special prayer, prior to answering the sacred questions and followed by the
outward symbol of baptism and that powerful benediction, always prompts tears
of gratitude.
Whereas our ancestors suffered persecution, fled
from country to country, and at times were compelled to gather secretly in the
woods to partake of the Lord’s Supper, our lives are enriched by thriving
communities and the freedom to celebrate these Lenten holy days peacefully
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for stopping by my blog and for sharing your thoughts!!