Pope Francis: baptism is the first step on the path of humility

In asking to be baptized, Jesus exemplifies the Christian call to follow the path of humility and meekness rather than going around and being a spectacle, said Pope Francis.

Addressing the pilgrims in St. Peter's Square on 12 January, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the pope said that the humble act of Christ shows "the attitude of simplicity, respect, moderation and concealment required of the Lord's disciples today".

“How many - it is sad to say - of the Lord's disciples show that they are disciples of the Lord. A person who shows off is not a good disciple. A good disciple is humble, meek, one who does good without letting go or is seen, "said Francis during his noon talk about Angelus.

The pope began the day by celebrating mass and baptizing 32 children - 17 boys and 15 girls - in the Sistine Chapel. In his brief homily before baptizing children, the pope told parents that the sacrament is a treasure that gives children "the power of the Spirit".

"That's why it's so important to baptize children, so they grow up with the power of the Holy Ghost," he said.

“This is the message I would like to give you today. Today you brought your children here so that they can have the Holy Spirit within them. Take care to grow with the light, with the power of the Holy Spirit, through catechesis, helping them, teaching them, through the examples that you will give them at home, "he said.

While the noises of demanding children filled the frescoed chapel, the pope repeated his usual advice to the mothers of the children, encouraging them to put their children at ease and not to worry if they begin to cry in the chapel.

"Do not be angry; let the children cry and scream. But, if your child cries and complains, maybe it's because they feel too hot, "he said. “Take off something, or if they are hungry, breastfeed them; here, yes, always in peace. "

Later, before praying the Angelus with the pilgrims, Francis said that the feast of the baptism of the Lord "reminds us of our baptism", and asked the pilgrims to find out the date on which they were baptized.

“Celebrate the date of your baptism every year in your heart. Just do it. It is also a duty of justice towards the Lord who has been so good to us, "said the pope.