Congratulations Gabriella Grace!

Congratulations to Gabriella Grace on recieving her first Sacrament. Last Sunday, September 5th 2010, she was baptized at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church (where her daddy and I were married just over two years ago) at the 5:45 PM Mass. She was beautiful in her little white garments, wearing the same baptismal gown that I wore when I was a baby as well as her Aunties Nicole and Emily.

Father Christopher presided over the Mass and Father Daniel did the right of baptism. We feel very close to Father Daniel and he was especially supportive during Andrew's battle, annointing both of us after Mass every four weeks. We had asked that he baptize Gabriella and were very honored that he made a special effort to do so despite having had a recent hip replacement.

Fr. Daniel spoke about the importance of godparents in helping us to raise Gabriella in the Catholic teaching. Our friends Mark and Mary Sherman proudly became Gabriella's godparents and we are so greatful that she has them. They are wonderful examples of living out the faith and a blessing for Gabriella that they are part of her life. We know that they truly understand the importance of their role as godparents, not simply for the day of her baptism. Fr. Daniel even instructed them to remember her baptismal birthday and to bake her a cake every year. Mary of course is already excited to make her a funfetti cake with gummi bears on top!

It was a beautiful Mass and Gabriella was an absolute angel. She slept peacefully through the entire baptism, only squirming very slightly from the water but not even fully waking.

After the Mass, we planned to have a gathering with the family that were present. This was going to take place in the park just a couple blocks from the church. However, as it was our week to be annointed, it took a bit longer leaving the church than anticipated and it was getting a bit late and we decided to just do a quick "baptismal tailgate" with cupcakes in the parking lot before parting ways. Gabriella was showered with wonderful gifts that will help us to raise her with a strong foundation in the Catholic faith. Thank you to everyone for the gifts!