grace

last sunday we had owen baptized at our church, followed by brunch at our home. it was truly a special day. what this act means to our family:

As members of the United Methodist Church, we believe that baptism is a gift from God. It is God’s action, not our action. This gift of love and grace is offered to us with no strings attached. No human response or price is needed to receive this gift. Because the redeeming love of God revealed in Jesus Christ extends to all persons, and because Jesus explicitly included the children in his kingdom, we present our son for baptism as an infant. We all need God’s gift of grace, regardless of age (Acts 2:39). Baptism is not an individual act; rather it is a solemn act of worship and commitment by a congregation. We believe that children are to be nurtured by a covenant community until they come to their own profession of faith.

Owen’s baptism represents:
• incorporation into the Body of Christ.
• a promise as his parents, to teach him about God’s love and nurture his faith so that he will later be ready to profess his own faith.
• forgiveness of sin.
• doorway to holy living . . . the beginning of Owen’s growth in this gift of grace, through which he will come closer to Christ, deepen his love for God and neighbor, and approach holiness of heart and life.

enjoy a few photos of this touching event ...

owen's christening gown was made by my college friend Catherine, who is so very talented. Henry also wore this same gown at his baptism. should we be blessed with any more children, they will also don this meaningful heirloom piece.

stacy & family were in town - and molly is now a high school graduate!

congrats molly, we are so proud of you!

the bentleys

grandmother and owen

I wasn't able to get photos of everything and everyone, but we had a really nice family gathering. again ... what a special, special day.