I like the Celebration of Baptism best, of all the Renewed Sacraments. We celebrate having Three Special Friends ....God The Father who makes the sun shine on everyone ..good and not so good, God The Son, Jesus Christ, our Forever Friend, and God the Holy Spirit who gives life to all that exists.

Nancy, a grandparent and widow, gives a Baptism Tour to the new parent, before Baptism day. Starting at the door of the church, she says that God is an open door of love and welcome to all people. She says that the people will raise a hand to bless the new baby on Baptism day. The baby will be carried in hands to The Font and Altar, with people in support. God blesses us with hands of people all through life. She shows The Bible, saying that the Scriptures are God’s love stories to His people over thousands of years. She herself likes best the story of mothers, asking Jesus, to bless their children,and He took them in His arms and hugged them. The perfume oil traced on the baby, heart and head, is God saying that you are my delight, and chosen one. The white cap is a sign of God’s protection. Every baby has a Guardian Angel companion from womb to tomb. She rehearses the lighting of the christening candle, for the baby, from the Christ (Paschal )Candle, and asks the parent to say ....I promise to tell the Story of Jesus Christ to my child. She concludes with a prayer together, and a little souvenir card.

Liam Hickey, St.Ciarans, Hartstown, Dublin 15.