The Baptism of Jesus at the Jordan is the anticipation of his baptism of
blood on the Cross, and it is the symbol of the entire sacramental activity by
which the Redeemer will bring about the salvation of humanity.
This is why the Patristic tradition has dedicated great interest to
this Feast, which is the most ancient after Easter. "Christ is baptized and the
whole world is made holy", sings today's liturgy; "he wipes out the debt of our
sins; we will all be purified by water and the Holy Spirit" (Antiphon to the
Benedictus, Office of Lauds).
Pope Benedict XVI, Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, 1/7/07
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