Baby Dedication

Today was the baby dedication at our church. I never thought I'd be up front with an actual baby. It was a wonderful moment to share with the other families and our church community. I am sad my folks couldn't make it but we got pictures. The liturgy which is read during the dedication states the following which about says it all.

● The parents publicly accept their responsibility to nurture their child in the love and grace of Jesus. At the same time, they are presenting the child to God in a special way, asking that His purposes be fulfilled in their lives.
● The church community gives welcome to the child and support to the parents. We commit to sharing both the joy and the work of nurturing the child.

Each family got to share a bit about why they were dedicating their child. Each child then was anointed with oil and prayed over. It was really special to be a part of.

We got to talk first and I, of course, had them laughing (and crying too) :-)

Fabio and Cris dedicated Eric who was born the same day as Lucas. They are our new friends from Brazil.

David and Ali dedicated both Josh and Ben. I am Josh's godmother so it was extra special for me. Ben was recently brought home from Ethiopia and is just the cutest little guy ever.

Sam and Derek dedicated Maya. Sam spoke beautifully about their heartache over losing Gabe (their son who died a few weeks after birth) and how our community has really helped them survive their grief. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Maya is appropriately named, Maya Hope because her very presence gives us hope in Christ.

Lucas slept right through his anointing.

Bill and I together in this endeavor

Ali and I spent the rest of church bouncing on the yoga/exercise balls to get our kids to sleep or at least stay content.

Nice certificate we can hang up in his room

And he got a Bible.

Lucas, we are so blessed to have you in our lives. God knew we needed you.