Christening and Baptism

This past weekend on Sunday April 26th, Liam was baptized at Sheil Catholic Center on Northwestern's campus. There was a mass at 11 a.m. followed by a private Christening ceremony at noon, presided over by Father Tom Franzman. The day started out pouring buckets of rain, but by the time the ceremony was over a nice sun had settled in. It was sort of sweet actually, because during the ceremony the baptismal font was located directly under the church's large domed skylight, so nice natural sunlight bathed little Liam's face.

He made hardly a peep through the entire ceremony, at times seeming to sleep through it even. He blinked his eyes a little when the water was poured three times over his head, but not a fuss to be heard.

Afterwards we all headed to the south end of campus for a little lunch reception in the Sociology department. Natasha and I had set things up that morning, including a big half sheet cake congratulating Liam on his baptism, some tasty fresh fruit, and a giant vat of homemade chicken salad to feed an army. It was wonderful to celebrate such a big moment in such a little life with so many of our loved ones. Those who could not make it in person were certainly there in spirit.

All decked out in his little white satin tux from Grandma Schultz. No girlie baptismal gown for you kiddo!

Grandpa Schultz checks out the little man.

Terry holds Liam while he receives the "gown" with symbols of Christianity on it.

Liam receives balsam scented oil to anoint his head.

A second kind of oil, also blessed by the Archbishop, anoints his chest.

Ahh he's all peaced out as a newly minted child of God.

Happy parents.

With Grandma McDonnell and Pop.

With Grandma and Grandpa Schultz, and Aunt Robyn (Godmother)

With Nana Brenda and Grandpa Rick.