How Many Days Until the Baptism of the Lord?
The Baptism of the Lord 2026 is celebrated on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
About the Baptism of the Lord
The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. This event marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and is considered a manifestation, or epiphany, of his divinity. The feast typically falls on the Sunday after Epiphany (January 6th), concluding the liturgical season of Christmas Time.
The Event at the Jordan River (Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22)
All three Synoptic Gospels record Jesus' baptism, highlighting key moments:
Jesus Comes to John
Jesus traveled from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John. John initially hesitated, recognizing Jesus' superiority ("I need to be baptized by you"), but Jesus insisted it was necessary "to fulfill all righteousness."
Descent of the Holy Spirit
As Jesus came up from the water, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in a visible form, like a dove.
Voice from Heaven
A voice came from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew) or "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased" (Mark/Luke). This was the voice of God the Father.
Beginning of Ministry
Immediately following his baptism and the temptation in the wilderness, Jesus began his public preaching and ministry.
Theological Significance
Jesus' baptism, though he was without sin, holds profound meaning:
- Manifestation of the Trinity: The event clearly reveals the three Persons of the Trinity: the Father (voice), the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit (dove).
- Anointing for Ministry: The descent of the Spirit signifies Jesus' anointing and empowerment for his messianic mission.
- Identification with Sinners: By submitting to John's baptism (a baptism of repentance), Jesus identifies himself with sinful humanity, whom he came to save.
- Sanctification of Water: Christian tradition sees Jesus' entry into the water as sanctifying it, prefiguring the sacrament of Christian Baptism.
- Model for Christian Baptism: Jesus' baptism serves as a model and foundation for the sacrament through which believers are incorporated into Christ and receive the Holy Spirit.
- Beginning of the New Creation: The Spirit hovering over the waters recalls the creation account in Genesis, suggesting the start of a new creation in Christ.
How the Feast is Observed
Liturgical Celebration
The feast is celebrated with Mass, focusing on the Gospel accounts of the Baptism and its theological significance.
Scripture Readings
Readings include the Gospel narratives of the Baptism, often paired with Old Testament passages related to God's servant or creation (e.g., Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7).
Liturgical Color: White
Symbolizing joy, light, purity, and the glory revealed at Jesus' baptism.
Renewal of Baptismal Promises
Some parishes encourage the faithful to renew their own baptismal promises on this day, recalling their incorporation into Christ.
End of Christmas Time
The Baptism of the Lord officially concludes the Christmas season. The following day begins the first period of Ordinary Time.
Reflection on Vocation
The feast invites reflection on Jesus' mission and the mission given to all Christians through their own baptism.