Two weeks ago tomorrow, I finally got Brayden baptised. Typically, this happens within weeks, or months of a baby's birth. However, I knew that I would have trouble getting Brayden baptised when I was not really 'practicing'. But, I believe in the purpose of baptism. However, what I didn't know were some of the other identifying purposes. In the past I was annoyed that I was going to have to take a class about getting my child baptised. I spent 12 years in Sunday school, what could I learn that I didn't already know? And, the Priest went through all of the symbolism with me. What I didn't know was what this sacrament represented. Having the Priest educate me on 'why' was really important. It was something I didn't know - nor would I have gotten had it been taught to me when I was younger. He said, Baptism is a commitment to God, and to a faith family (those I knew), but it is your identity. It is who you are - just as your genes are passed down through genetics, your faith is as well. Wow, I get it. I now get that when I was struggling with my religion, I would have never entertained the idea of converting. ever. I hear that from a lot of Catholics. It is because it is who we are. It is part of our identity. Just as much as I am Norwegian and Republican - I am too, a Catholic. Those are descriptive titles I would use to describe 'who' I am.
I love when I have those "ah-ha" moments.
I believe all religions have their own interpretations and Catholics are the same way. We interpret the Bible in a way that makes us Catholic, just as others do for their own religions. At this point in my life, I feel it is necessary to have this relationship with God, and with a church. I am learning so much now, because I have had life experience to help me really learn. Not only that, I have a great Priest. To me, that is why I go. I go to learn. I go to pray. I go to pass that on to Brayden.
The ceremony was a really nice. Prior to the start, Father Hougan explained the Baptism to Brayden - all of the "what's and why's" on what he was going to do - that was really wonderful. Here are a few pictures, taken by the wonderful Chris Bland!
