Virtue of Baptism
By virtue of our baptism, we all have been called into the ministry of priesthood. As members of the priesthood, we are to be a bridge between the entire creation and the creator; we are to connect earth and heaven; we are to enable God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.
It is at baptism that we hear these words spoken by the congregation:
“We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.” (BCP p. 308)
This priesthood, as referenced in I Peter, is not earned and it is not merited. It is given to us by the mercy and the grace of God.
This priesthood is not to be served. It is the priesthood of service.
PCD