How (and why!) to celebrate your baptismal anniversary this year

For us, too, baptism defines a crucial change in our life. Baptism marks the beginning of our journey with Christ; it is THE moment necessary for salvation.

There are a few things you can do to prepare to make this a celebration every year going forward.

Step 1: Make sure you know what day you were baptized, and mark it on your calendar.If you were a baby when you received the sacrament, this may require a little digging, especially if your parents don’t remember.

Step 2: If you can track down any pictures of your baptism day, see if you can print those pictures out or save them to your phone or computer so that you can look at them every year.

Step 3: See if you can find out the name of the deacon or priest who baptized you if you don’t already know. If he has since passed on, you can pray for him every year on your anniversary of baptism. If he is still alive, you can still make it a point to pray for him and his vocation and ministry as a priest.

Step 4: Have you talked to your godparents recently? If they are alive, now is a good time to reach out and say hello. You may have very dedicated godparents who pray for you every day, or you may have godparents who are not even Catholic anymore. Regardless, they were an essential part of the life-changing sacrament that brought you into a life of grace, so connecting somehow with them, even briefly, is a good idea. 

Better than a birthday party, because age is not relevant. Invite people over to play some games (try The Catholic Card Game, or low-key versions of charades or Pictionary) or have everyone bring something to contribute to a potluck dinner, and share food and conversation. 

... whether be that your favorite takeout or a special dessert. There are some stellar movies that celebrate the Catholic faith why not enjoy one of those for a night in? 

Have you been to the Church where you were baptized? If you can't get there in person this year, look up pictures online. Ask anyone who was there at your baptism if they have any memories of the day to share with you. 

Depending on what day your anniversary falls upon, this might be easier or more challenging. But, if it’s a Saturday, for example, why not start the day with a jolt of grace at Mass, and then enjoy some brunch afterwards? Run some errands or do the work you need to do, and then take a break in the afternoon for Confession. 

Happy Baptismal Day!