Welcome to the Family of God!

Another occasion that is so enjoyable is the welcoming of a child or adult to the family of God! It is a secular baptism, and a naming ritual, that can take place in a home, a church, at a covered bridge, on a beach, or any number of locations. This ceremony in no way will inhibit the person from seeking their religious preference later in life, in fact, it may allow them to have a broader view of life and will encourage virtues of honesty, integrity, fairness and love to others. I may include the meaning of the names that are chosen, or the reason for the names chosen. My wish is that we all welcome a new child of God, and we shower them with love and affection and goodwill throughout their lives.

Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming a mother and her two children to the family of God. The location was the beautiful covered bridge in Bethel, Maine, right in the stream of water flowing beneath. The weather was beautiful and the sun was streaming through the clouds.
Ryleigh Shea, Seth Alexander and Katherine Ann, had the special honor today to be welcomed.

I like to use a poem entitled "Little One" by Rabindranath Tagore

Bless this little heart, this white soul that has won the kiss of heaven for our earth.
She loves the light of the sun, she loves the sight of her mothers face.
She has not learned to despise the dust, not to hanker after gold.
Clasp her to your heart and bless her.
She has come into this land of one hundred crossroads.
I know not how she chose you from the crowd, how she came your door, and grasped your hand to ask you the way.
She will follow you, laughing and talking and not a doubt in her heart.
Keep her trust, lead her straight and bless her.
Lay your hand on her head, and pray that, though the waves underneath grow threatening, yet teh breath from above may come and fill her sails and waft her to the haven of peace.
Forget her not in your hurry, let her come to your heart, and bless her.

I then bless the godparents or sponsors, and the parents. And say, Welcome to the family of God!