This idea was copied from our "Ideas for Renewal & Recommitment" forum.

Baptism Shell Soap Project

The seashell is an ancient symbol of baptism, and they make a great mold for quick-setting "melt and pour" soap making. You can also buy silicone shell molds. Great take-home reminder about baptism, and something the kids could give to the congregation as well for a renewal reminder.

Here's a video of DiY "melt and pour" soap making. Takes about 2 to 4 hours to harden this type of soap. Lots of DiY "melt and pour" soap suggestions online. Here's one that has all you need to know, including a supply list and instructions.

You could mix the colors into one shell soap or make different colored shell or shape soaps to represent the symbols of water and fire and spirit.

There are other similar videos. Keep in mind that this is the "melt and pour" type of soap that is easier to work with and hardens quicker. The type of soap you choose to melt will affect how fast it hardens. You can buy blocks of soap and scents at a craft store or online. You can also use soap flakes.

You can hasten the hardening by putting the molded soap into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Wrap with parchment or wax paper (to help keep its shape) and share.

Celebrating Everyone's Baptism Birthday

In addition to teaching the story of Jesus' baptism, this lesson activity could become an occasion for celebrating our "Baptism Birthdays."

The biblical connection between our own baptism, Jesus' baptism, and Pentecost (the "birthday" of the Church) can be found in the words of John the Baptist:

“I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire." (Matthew 3:11)

Concordia Publishing has a bunch of good ideas for celebrating the "birthday" of a child's baptism. These could also be used for a church-wide day of celebrating. There are good suggestions for things you can do at home too, like taking a "cross walk" around your neighborhood to see how many cross shapes you can find (this could be a cellphone photo game too).

When to celebrate everyone's baptism?
Jesus' Baptism is traditionally celebrated on the first Sunday AFTER Three Kings Day (Epiphany), which is the first Sunday after January 6th every year. It comes on the heels of the tradition of "New Year's Resolutions" too, so that's a natural thematic fit for renewal and commitment.

The Day of Pentecost is another option for celebrating our "baptism birthdays." Pentecost is the baptism of the Church by the Holy Spirit and is often called "the birthday of the Church." Of course, this is a springtime date.