Gianna's baptism: Part 2

After the preparations at the house, it was time to hit the Church for the real deal. There were five other children being baptized during the same ceremony, so we felt like the community was a part of the celebration.

Despite the fact that today was all about Gianna, Enzo was very happy and cooperative. And he was mesmerized by Great Nana and Grumpy. As usual. Here, he gives a big kiss to Grumpy.

Boy, do these cousins look like they are gonna cause some trouble some day. Soon.

That's better.

Who, me?

Briana (Jeff's sister) and Scott (Jeff's cousin) will be great Godparents!

The God-family!

Deacon Jim invited all the children who were present to bless the baptismal water. He told them that without their blessing, the babies couldn't be baptized. I was afraid that Enzo would have none of it. But, he marched himself right back to the baptismal font and stood in line to bless the water with all the big kids.

He was pretty thrilled by it. Mimi was making sure he wouldn't jump in.

Enzo blesses the water.

After the near-drowning that Enzo had on his baptism day, we were better prepared this time. We had an absorbant towel nearby, a change of clothes handy, and we wore dark colors. But this baptism was gentle and calm. And although I know the Holy Spirit was moving within us all, he/she didn't beat us over the head. Deacon Jim scooped up some holy water in a seashell and peacefully baptized our baby girl in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. She leaned back, closed her eyes, and opened up her arms.













Dada and his girl.

Here, Gianna's chest was blessed with olive oil for strength and her head was anointed with chrism, sealing her with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

And when she finally drifted off to sleep, we had to pass her around like a delicate sack of potatoes as each one of us held her while receiving a blessing. Father, mother, Godmother, Godfather.

...and after each blessing and after the whole congregation had concluded in unison, we hear Enzo shout "Ahhhmen!!" Blessing for mom. All alone, "Ahhhhmen!!" Blessing for dad. All alone, "Ahhmen!!" Godmother. Godfather. "Ahhhmen!!" Ahhh-dorable, that kid.

Having some snacks with Papa.

One of my favorite pics of the day.

And now, we have wonderful memories and a new way to celebrate 9/11. Happy spiritual birthday, Baby Girl!