While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the inland regions and came to Ephesus, where he found some disciples. He said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?’ They replied, ‘No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.’ Then he said, ‘Into what then were you baptized?’ They answered, ‘Into John’s baptism.’ Paul said, ‘John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus.’ On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied— altogether there were about twelve of them. (Acts 19:1-7)

I have been baptized three times. Each time I have been baptized in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

On each occasion I have perceived the need for repentance, but I have approached the rite more as an opportunity for renewal, especially of my relationship with God.

I have never spoken in tongues. It would be a stretch to claim any prophesy. Following two of the rituals I experienced a bit of anti-climax, even loss.

None of my baptisms have been in the Episcopal Church, in which I have worshiped for over twenty years. But near the close of the Episcopal celebration of baptism comes this prayer: "Give him an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works. Amen."

If these gifts are of the Holy Spirit, then I have known a baptism of the Holy Spirit. Thanks be to God.