Kabir's Baptism
July 21, 2013
St. Rose of Lima Church
11:15 a.m.
It was a lovely baptism! We had friends and family from everywhere travel in to help us welcome Kabir into the Church. Many friends and family traveled pretty far to come out and it truly meant the world to us! We know that other friends and family weren't able to make it, but they sent cards and I could feel their thoughts with us. It was a beautiful reminder of the broad and deep family that will surround Kabir as he grows!
Gathering Song: Welcome to This House
First Reading: Genesis 18:1-10a
Responsorial Psalm: Those Who Do Justice
Second Reading: Colossians 1:24-28
Gospel Reading: Luke 10:38-42
Preparation of the Gifts: Seek Ye First
Communion Songs: Taste and See, All Who Hunger
Sending Forth Song: Sing of the Lord's Goodness
The mass and homily resounded in my soul that day. I was filled with joy at the sight of my friends and family, and knowing that this was just the beginning to Kabir's faith journey. The songs that we sang reiterated why Jay and I chose to have Kabir baptized: to know he is welcome, to grow up just, to always seek goodness, to hunger for more, and to sing of his blessings.
In the hustle and bustle of getting settled, I wasn't 100% focused on the readings. And then Fr. Matt started the homily and I was still. He spoke about how we are called to be welcoming. That it is our duty to provide food, drink, and company. That in taking care of others we are fulfilled and find our blessings. It may have been two months since Kabir's baptism, but I still remember the homily because it's something I strive to do everyday. I want Kabir to learn and always know that the greatest gifts you can give someone else is welcoming them, knowing you thought of them, taking care of them, and thanking them. It was the perfect homily for our day of celebration!
Kabir was a little perplexed at being naked in church but took to it. When he was immersed in the Baptismal font he didn't cry (but he did make a face) and kind of enjoyed it by the third immersion. The chrism oil made him smell so sweet and holy! I didn't wash his hair for a couple of days just to hold on to that smell a little longer.
Our reception was a yummy collaboration of friends and family! We had cold salads that my mom and brothers helped make the night before. By the time we all got to making the caprese appetizers we were a fit of giggles. My brothers also helped set up the hall in the morning. Dad and Grace helped by bringing wine, veggies, and chicken nuggets for kids. Brooke made a finger licking mac and cheese. Bommy Perima, Uncle Singh, Akka Rad and John brought fruit that we dipped in scrumptious sweet cream that Madrina Julie and Uncle Mike picked up for us. Therese made a yummy apricot chutney pork loin. And no family gathering is complete without Sally's famous Kahlua cake. We had arts and crafts for the kiddos. Every one left a lovely thought for Kabir on a a giant letter K.
If you go back a number of posts you can see my brief rant on godparents and the rules. We are so excited that the godparents we picked said yes.
We asked Tony Dawson to be Kabir's godfather. Growing up, Tony was always the most caring and compassionate person I knew. As a young child, if you were distressed, he'd come sit next to you and just be with you or give you a hug. He hasn't had an easy life but he hasn't let that damper his spirits. He's on a journey to discover who he is and what he wants to do, and I'm sure this will help him tremendously when Kabir is going through the same thing. Kabir will learn to love music from Tony and how to search the world asking questions.
We asked Julie Alberty to be Kabir's godmother, Madrina in Spanish. Julie is one of my best friends! We have been through a lot together and it meant so much to us that she said yes. I know that Julie will always let Kabir know that he is unconditionally loved and supported, that he doesn't have to change to please people. Julie will teach Kabir what things in life are worth fighting for and how to fight for them. Kabir will learn how to be silly and dance! Kabir will also inherit Madrina Julie's love of ice cream and be able to finish a pint by himself (putting mommy to shame!)!
Lastly, before the pictures come, here are some small tidbits that made the day a little extra special:
- Mom and dad visited Lourdes and Fatima this summer. While at Fatima they purchased Kabir's baptism outfit. It was a very special gift!
- During times of celebration you miss the loved ones who have passed away a little more. Jay wore one of Grandpa Divita's ties and I was wearing Mali Perima's (my godmother) favorite perfume. They were small gestures but it made us feel like they were nearby.
- Madrina Julie gifted Kabir a beautiful gold cross from Jerusalem which is part of her family traditions.
Also, a big thanks to Noel who graciously took pictures of the entire day so that we could have some lovely memories.
And now pictures!!
