Ella's Baptism

Ella Bernadette Teska

Baptized in Christ

Saturday, May 7, 2011

"Baptism is God's most beautiful and magnificent gift. . . .We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God's Lordship."

- St. Gregory of Nazianzus

1216 Catechism of the Catholic Church

All around, it was a beautiful day.

The sun was shining and Ella slept peacefully through the mass and her baptism:)

Ella with her Godparents, Joe and Amy

 Event photographer in training

A Mother's Day tribute: Ella surrounded by all her mothers (and her sister who will likely try and mother her too;)

 Wearing the baptismal gown my grandma made for me when I was baptized.  Gianna wore it as well.

The sign a family from church made for her:

"Congratulations and God Bless You Ella Bernadette on your Holy Baptism

First Saturday- May 7th, 2011

St. Charles Borremeo

Chippewa Falls, WI"

It came with this note attached:

This sign is a reflection of the Catholic faith. At first glance and from a distance, it is confusing, hard to read and understand. But as one approaches with heart, eyes and mind open to study its intricacies, it begins to unfold and become clear and comprehensible, rich and beautiful. Each element unique on its own but when brought together form artistic unity. So take a closer look and see what you can find.

The Catholic faith, unlike this sign has infinite blessings. The gifts offered to us by our faith open to a richness and fullness of faith to lead us closer to Christ and ultimately the Father. Now that you've taken a closer look at this sign, take a closer look at the Catholic faith and discover the blessings and gifts yet to be revealed to you.

Thank you to all who celebrated this joyous occasion with Ella Bernadette, making it happy and memorable. Enjoy and God Bless!

It is a beautiful keepsake for Ella, I hope it always reminds her of the day she was baptized into the Catholic faith.