bennett's baptism

It's a big day today for Bennett.  He is going to be baptized in the Russian Orthodox church.  Bennett woke up early so we came downstairs to help make breakfast.  Bennett loves to cook.

My mom made quiche and syrniki, Russian cheese pancakes. Plus, she bought bagels, cinnamon buns and muffins.  We spent the rest of the morning eating, playing and snuggling.

We were happy when Bennett took a snooze before heading out to the church.  He was going to need all of his precious energy for the service.

We headed for the church around 11:30AM.  The service was at 1:00PM but we wanted to discuss somethings with the Father first.  None of us knew what our responsibilities were during the service so we needed a practice run as well.

The Father had everything ready when we arrived.  He briefly talked us through a few things for the service and after all of the family and guests arrived it was show time.  We started the service with a prayer for the mother at the entrance of the church.  After the mother's prayer, it was the godparents turn.  Audrey and Scott had to hold Bennett while the father read a prayer to them about setting a good example for Bennett and they had to renounce the devil by spitting over their shoulder.  Bennett was doing well at this point.  He was playing with Audrey's necklace and not paying attention to much else.

Next we followed the father into the church.  We stood in front of the chalice filled with water and the Father was continuously praying on Bennett's behalf.  We got him undressed after a few minutes and ready for the dunking.  He was not happy after he got dunked into the chalice filled with water.

  

I was feeling helpless that I couldn't really help while Bennett was having a hard time with the service.  The service did not go on for much longer.  The Father recited a few more prayers.  He walked Bennett with his godparents three times around the chalice to represent the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.  

Bennett also got his first haircut today when the Father cut a little off to burn in the flame. as a gift to God.

As the last thing he walked through the arches of the altar with Bennett in his arms welcoming him to the church.  

It was a beautiful service but we were all very happy it was over.  I was happy I could grab Bennett and comfort him.  He was happy to get down so he could play with his friends and walk around.

We headed to lunch after the baptism after taking lots of pictures with family and friends.  Thank you so much to those that made it to the baptism.  We are truly lucky to have such caring family and friends.

A special thank you to Bennett's godparents, Audrey and Scott.  It is truly an honor to have you two accept this important responsibility.  I know that Bennett will have your guidance and support throughout his life.

We got home around dinner time but no one was hungry.  We had so much food at lunch we skipped dinner and spent the evening goofing around.  Mostly that means Bennett opened some presents, everyone helped and then everyone got piggy back rides.

He loves his tissue paper.

It was getting hot in there so Bennett took some clothe off. 

My mom was the very best at giving rides.

I love his thunder thighs.  

Sadly this was our last night together.  We had the most amazing and fun weekend thanks to you all.  Love you guys.  I cannot wait to get together again soon.