Dominic's Baptism

Today my grandson, Dominic Rizzo, was baptized. The ceremony was performed by Deacon Dick.

Deacon Dick seemed to genuinely love children, and had no problem with letting Gianna wander through the church, which kept her in much better spirits than would probably otherwise be the case.

In fact, Deacon Dick broke into a grin every time he saw her. Which I also do.

St. Stephen's is undergoing remodelling, and the santuary has been moved to what is normally a choir hall.

Both Gianna and Dominic were exceptionally pleasant to have around, not always the case with children in church.

As a first part of the ritual, Deacon Dick annointed Dominic's neck with oil.

Gianna wasn't sure what to make of it all.

From left-to-right: Brother Zach, Uncle John, Daddy Jimmy, Mommy Jennifer, Dominic, Deacon Dick, Uncle Joseph, Papa Michael, Aunt Kelly, and Keith.

The actual baptism with water then commenced.

Dominic didn't complain until the very end.

Daddy quickly calmed him down.

The final annointing with with the oil of chrism, on Dominic's head. He seemed to like it. (Chrism smells nice.)

Aunt Dawn placed the baby stole around Dom's neck.

Godfather and Uncle John holds a candle.

Deacon Dick finally got Dominic's attention.

After the service, Papa (me) got to hold the guest of honor until he dozed off.

Uncle John drove Aunt Kelly and Brother Zach back afterwards.