How to Make a Feast of the Baptism of the Lord DIY Pilgrimage

As the Christmas season comes to a close (unless you observe through the Presentation of the Lord!), it is once again time to celebrate a special day in the Catholic Church: the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. 

Taking place on Sunday, January 11 (2026), the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord celebrates the moment when Jesus was baptized by St. John the Baptist in the Jordan River, marking the beginning of His public ministry. During the baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him, and the voice of the Father proclaimed Him as His beloved Son. 

To celebrate and commemorate this wonderful day in the Church, we invite you to make a DIY pilgrimage!

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This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

The Pilgrimage Journey for Families

Note: Before you begin, you will want to gather a few supplies, including a Bible, a bowl of water, and a candle.

1. Gather the Pilgrims

Supplies:

  • Bowl of water

  • Candle

  • Bible

Light the candle and say:

“Today we remember that we are God’s children.”

Have each child dip their fingers in water and make the Sign of the Cross.

2. Tell the Story (Kid-Friendly)

Paraphrase Matthew 3:13–17:

“Jesus went to the river to be baptized. God the Father spoke from heaven and said, ‘This is my beloved Son.’

Ask:

  • What do you think it felt like to hear God’s voice?

  • What do you think God says about you?

Affirm each child by name:

“You are God’s beloved child.”

3. Pilgrim Activity Stop

Choose one:

  • Walk to a nearby pond, creek, or fountain

  • Visit your parish church

  • Walk around your neighborhood praying for neighbors

Let kids take turns leading short prayers.

4. Family Renewal of Baptismal Promises

Parents ask; kids respond:

Do you promise to love God and follow Jesus?
We do!

Sprinkle a little water gently over each child’s head and say:

“Remember who you belong to.”

5. Mission Craft or Action

Choose one:

  • Draw a picture of your baptism (real or imagined)

  • Write “Baptized + Beloved” on a card and decorate it

  • Choose one family service goal for the coming month

Finish with:

“Jesus, help our family live as Your light.”

Optional Add-On (For Both Pilgrimages)

  • Look up baptism photos or stories

  • Call a godparent

  • Share a simple celebratory dessert

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This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

The Pilgrimage Journey for Solo Pilgrims or Couples

1. Begin the Journey: Remember Your Baptism

Location: Your parish church or a quiet prayer corner at home

  • Dip your fingers in holy water (or blessed water).

  • Make the Sign of the Cross slowly.

  • Say aloud (together if a couple):

    “I belong to Christ.”

Pause for silence (1–2 minutes).

2. Scripture Stop: The River Jordan

Read aloud: Matthew 3:13–17

Reflect quietly or discuss:

  • Why does Jesus—who is sinless—submit to baptism?

  • What does it mean to be beloved before doing anything to earn it?

Couple prompt:

  • How has our shared faith shaped the direction of our life together?

3. Pilgrim Walk or Drive

Take a short intentional walk or drive (10–20 minutes).

  • Walk near water if possible, or simply walk prayerfully.

  • Pray one decade of the Rosary or repeat:

    “Lord, help me live my baptism.”

4. Renewal of Baptismal Promises

Stand together and pray:

Do you renounce sin and all that leads you away from God?
I do.

Do you believe in God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
I do.

Finish by tracing the Sign of the Cross with water on your forehead or each other’s hands.

5. Mission Moment

Write down:

  • One habit to let go of this year

  • One virtue God is calling you to grow in

End with the prayer:

“Lord, send me where You need me.”

Optional Add-On (For Both Pilgrimages)

  • Look up baptism photos or stories

  • Call a godparent

  • Share a simple celebratory dessert

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This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

That’s it! We pray you have a blessed Feast of the Baptism of the Lord and that you had the most beautiful of Christmas seasons.

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