First Birthday Baby Blessing

I am a blessed woman and I am constantly reminded of this. I have the honor of participating in some of life's happiest events. Yes, officiating weddings is at the top of the list. Yet there are other celebrations that touch my heart as well.

Celebrating with Baby Q (Quentin) and his family was a wonderful way to start my new year. I had the pleasure of marrying Quentin's parents, Emily and Kurt several years ago. I was thrilled when they asked me to baptize their first born, Ches. And now, a few years later they contacted me again. In Emily's words, she wanted me to 'complete the spiritual circle' by baptizing Quentin.

We had a ceremony planned but it became evident that Quentin had his own agenda. He quickly plucked a flower from a nearby arrangement and decided it would be great fun to taunt his parents. Quite a little character he is! And such an innocent little face.

And that is the beauty of a baby blessing. You never quite know what will happen. Ceremonies that take place in a personal space are a little more relaxed. This does not diminish the sacredness of the ceremony but does allow for a little laughter.

We worked on the ceremony together and, if I say so myself, it was very beautiful. Although Christian based the ceremony honored the Divine in other religious traditions.

Heavenly Father, Divine Mother, Spirit of the Universe we ask for Your blessing here today. Protect this family and community and surround us with infinite unconditional love. Keep us mindful that the miracle of new life is both a gift and path back to you. 

Creating a personal ceremony is not always an option and many couples appreciate the opportunity to include wording that voices their truth and speaks to their heart.

Quentin was baptized in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. 'With the blessings of the Divine mother, the compassion of the Buddha, the protection of Maa Durga, we call you our own. Quentin, God has called your name.  You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed. You are forever a child of God and one with the Divine, a member of God’s family.'