Easter and baptism

I totally disagree with Vincent Edwards (April 29 to May 5) that baptisms should not be performed during the Easter Mass and should be a private occasion for families.

We are taught that baptism is about initiating new members into a wider family of believers. Is it therefore not appropriate that the whole congregation should be present to show its joy at the arrival of a new member? The occasion also allows members to renew their faith in solidarity with those who are initiated.

Before relocating to Pretoria I lived in a semi-rural area, and had also worked as a full time catechist in rural areas for a number of years. Baptisms, first communions, confirmations and weddings were occasions for long and beautiful Masses, followed by a communal meal and other celebrations. Most members of the congregations tried to get to know each other, and few would rush to get back home immediately after Mass.

I think that it would be to the benefit of our Church and faith if we could start thinking of Holy Mass as a community celebration to be enjoyed with others, instead of something to be got over with as quickly as possible.

Buddy J Ntsong, Pretoria

Baptism is and has been many hundreds of years an important part of Easter and has always been an important part of the Easter vigil and Easter Sunday. Should we not be willing witnesses to the reception of new members to our family? It is a private affair, but one of the family of the Church of Christ, participation in which should be cause for exceeding joy.

How can “fury” develop at such a time? We spend so little time in the House of God. Should an hour or two there be such a penance? God help us if it is!

Kevin J Maynard, East London