In this episode of UNFKD, I dive into the theology of baptism, influenced this week by recently baptised comedian Russell Brand posting a photo of him, in his underpants, baptising someone else. The episode tackles key questions about what baptism is and what it's for, who is 'allowed' to perform baptisms ( spoiler - it's not usually stand-up comedians) the theological differences across denominations, and its modern cultural significance, especially when controversial public figures come out as Christians.

References and sources

Guite, Malcolm. “A Pair of Sonnets for St. John the Baptist.” Malcolm Guite, 21 June 2022, malcolmguite.wordpress.com/2022/06/21/a-pair-of-sonnets-for-st-john-the-baptist-5/

Matthew 3:13-17 - New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition.

Romans 6 - New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition.

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/may/14/russell-brand-baptised-thames-sins-washed-away-criminal-allegations

https://premierchristian.news/en/news/article/russell-brand-faces-backlash-for-conducting-baptism-in-just-white-underwear

Music

"Better Day" and "Chill Lofi Beat" by Penguin Music; "At the farthest land -calm quiet relaxing piano" by HarumachiMusic. Both on Pixabay