Quote about our Lord's Baptism

The Lord was Baptized, not to be cleansed Himself, but to cleanse the waters, so that those waters, cleansed by the flesh of Christ which knew no sin, might have the power of Baptism.

~St. Ambrose of Milan

I've never seen this quote, but I think it is so beautiful and quite profound.

Baptism, Funeral Pall and New Life

Having a chance to visit with my elderly aunt the other day was as always a treat. She was asking me about the cloth covering the casket during the Catholic funeral. It seemed like I remembered this had to do with baptism. Later I found that to be correct. The white cloth is reminiscent of the white baptismal gown or garment. Just as the person is welcomed into the Church community as a new Christian in baptism, the deceased is now entering a new life in the resurrection of Christ.

This white cloth is called a pall. It is a sign of our resurrection and hope for a new life with Christ.