The Baptism of the Lord

and Benedict Thomas!

This Sunday marks the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord.  What an incredible day in the church.  John the Baptist baptizes Jesus in the Jordan.  Jesus shows us as Christians what needs to be done in order to be "well pleased" in the sight of our Lord.

This day was extra special to us because we had our baby, Benedict Thomas, baptized!

6 years ago our oldest daughter, Madeline, was also baptized on this day.  Maddy was so excited to share this special anniversary with her little brother (and Jesus!).  All of our children have been baptized on special days within the church.  It helps me to remember the date and makes us all feel special.  Sophie was baptized on Divine Mercy Sunday and Clara was baptized on Christ the King.  

We are so blessed to have the Lorissa and Johnny and their beautiful family in our lives.  They have been the Godparents to all of our children.  I can not think of 2 people I would want more in charge of our children's salvation than these two.  They are exceptional Catholics that hold true to the church's teachings and encourage Matt and I to be better Catholics, parents, and people.  

                      

Our baby all dressed up in his "white tux."  Looking more like Tony Soprano than a baby :)

Father Brian May and Deacon Steve were the celebrants on this special day.  We are lucky to have such special priests and deacons at our parish.

One of my favorite parts of the baptism is the litany of Saints.  I remember this from my baptism (unlike Benedict I was an adult) you feel the presence of so many holy men and women.  Father May, always attentive to detail, made sure to ask for the intercession of Saint Benedict and Saint Thomas.   

Putting oil on his neck.
He smells delicious according to the girls.  

The priest baptizes the baby in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Baby Ben did not cry or even flail when the water was poured on his little noggin.  It is fun to remember back to all the girls special day.  Maddy flailed all her limbs, Sophie cried and cried, Clara smiled, and Ben just relaxed.
Fitting that he would do the whole laid back old man in a hot tub just like he does for his baths.  

Benedict's Godparent's lit the candle off the Easter candle.  Reminding us that he passed from darkness into the light of Jesus.  Beautiful in it's symbolism.  I can't help but think of "this little light of mine I'm gonna let it shine."  

Benedict being welcomed into our church as the newest member of our Christian community.  Over the years we have made so many friends in this parish.  Matt and the girls went to mass after I had him and they announced it to the whole parish during the announcements.  It is so special to have so many families and people praying for us.  I really feel like many of these people have watched our family grow.

Thanks to all the friends and family who came to celebrate with us.  

Our family of 6!
It is a miracle everyone is looking at the camera.