Note: On Tuesdays and some Sundays, you can find me at Your Daily Tripod, owned by my friend TonyD. A longer version of the post below appears there.
I went to a baptism the other day (not the one pictured here), and was struck anew by the Lord’s amazing grace.
My friends and four other couples were there, babies in 
godparents’ arms, gathered around the baptismal font. Everyone was dressed up for Jesus, positively beaming. I think the babies felt it too; there wasn’t a single cry during the ceremony, not even when water was poured over their heads.
The deacon welcomed everyone, Catholic, Christian, non-Christian, and non-believer, and explained the significance of each part of the rite. He noted that while we are instructed to put away our childish ways, the Lord always desires us to come to him as children: trusting, open, and loving. While the deacon likely handles baptisms on a regular basis, his explanatory words, tone and face showed how much he loves this part of his ministry. Indeed, a man I don’t knows, standing by himself, turned to me three times and made comments along the lines of “This guy is great! He really means it.”
At the end, the deacon thanked all relatives and friends for coming, and said all of us, regardless of our faith or lack thereof, are always welcome at the parish. As I left, I noticed the man who had been standing next to me was several feet ahead, still alone. I hope he comes back.
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