In searching through some of my old baby photos the other day, I came across a bunch of photos from my baptism. I sat, in rapt silence, thumbing through them. Wondering if the officiating priest is still alive? I think he was still alive for my mom's funeral, albeit retired. Remember how my niece looked on her baptism day, wearing that same baptism gown. Marveling at how strong and handsome my uncle, my godfather, looked - a seemingly impossibility based on his present state of health.
As an Italian who was raised Catholic (aren't we all?), I have been to scores of baptisms. But it wasn't until my own children were baptised, that I understood the true meaning of the ceremony. That God is accepting you into His family, with open arms and promised to love and protect you forever.
Kinda like we do with our kids.
I figured that becoming one of God's kids deserved a little attention...
Scrapbook your baptism photos, and describe how you feel today about your faith. If you don't have any photos, use a photo of your current church, temple, synagogue, or other religious building that you attend. If you are non-denominational, journal about your reasons and how it came to be - did you grow up, not following a faith, or did an event cause you to change your mind?
Here's my layout:
Supplies used: Scenic Route patterned paper (turned over to use plain kraft side); Fancy Pants patterned paper, cardstock stickers and glitter clear die cuts; myStamp BOX stamps (Funky Circles, Mini Alphas); Versamark ink, Ranger embossing powder; Marvy Uchida, Fiskars and Creative Memories punches; Cosmo Cricket chipboard alphas; Maya Road kraft journaling tag; May Arts velvet ribbon; Glue Dots; Lasting Impressions piercing template; Bo Bunny button; Marvy Uchida pen; jute, staples.
I created this layout using the Vanity Fair kit from WeScrap, and for the myStamp BOX Sketch Challenge, using the layout sketch from my wildly talented team member, Allison Cope. Sadly, I didn't get my layout photographed in time to be posted with the team. Be sure to check out their interpretations, as well as Ally's card sketch and the DTs interpretations on the blog here.
My journaling, which is hidden, reads:
Looking at these photos now, some 43+ years later, I realize that my faith has, and always will, be a part of my life. I was baptised and raised Roman Catholic. Attending a Catholic public school, religion was something present each and every day, whether it was the "Our Father" prayer recited every morning - back when it wasn't considered offensive to some - or the required religion classes, or the masses held in celebration.
Over the years into adulthood, the rite of churchgoing ebbed and flowed again and again. But while the act of worshipping in God's home was not always present, I always held faith. I always believed that things happen for a reason and that He has a grand plan laid out for each and every one of us.
Sure, it was hard to see the reasons sometimes. Like when I found out that my little cousin, only 22 years old, took her own life because she thought it would end her problems. Or when Mom was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and underwent surgery, just days before Connor's first birthday. And when after successfully beating it and living cancer-free for four years, she found out it had metastasized in the fatal form of lung cancer. It's hard to see the big picture during those times.
But even though I question my faith during these low moments, I still draw solace in the fact that God loves me, unconditionally. And that He can see the bigger picture. And that I am, and always will be one of His children.
If you'd like to participate in this year long challenge, please share your layout below, using Linky Tools, by 11:59pm EST on December 31st, 2011. Please see the Leave Your Legacy page for guidelines, before linking here. Winners will be announced on January 1st, 2012.
Oh,Sue, your journalling has brought me to tears - I feel for you and also myself as we have been through many of the same events. I too had a cousin who took her own life, my mother died way too young (from non-hodgkins lymphoma) and I have relatives who are failing - too quickly in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteSadly, I don't have photos of my baptism (though I do have the certificate). We do have photos of DH's baptism but no information - typical!
Big hugs and I love the LO.
Sue xx
Stunning layout Sue! Your journaling is beautiful. I sadly don't have any photos of my baptism; I believe my Mother may have a slide or two but I don't have myself. Gorgeous layout!
ReplyDeleteThis is wonderful Sue! I think it is very big of you to share your faith and some very personal parts of your life. I don't have any photos of my baptism, but I recently took a photo of my church when my son had his grade 6 farewell so maybe I will get busy and scrap this. A big hug from me to you. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDelete