Marin's baptism

My sweet little Marin chose to be baptized this fall. She has had a big summer, filled with camp experiences, "getting back to real life" after-camp experiences, and lots of spiritual discovery and questions. I love her heart, she desires truth and will fight to uncover it. That questioning and seeking is going to serve her well her whole life. We had several amazing and life-changing conversations and prayer times together, and it culminated in her accepting the gift Jesus has offered, and then wanting to get baptized.

At our church, they actually have baptism events for 3rd-5th graders, twice a year. It involves them taking a class to learn about faith, discover their own readiness, and help them create their "story" or testimony that they eventually share in front of the crowd.

Marin prepared and prayed, and overcame some major stage fright along the way. It was awesome to see her blossom and break through some fears. She asked her Daddy to help Pastor Todd baptize her, which he was honored to do.

She wanted to invite her family, all her present/past teachers, and some friends from school. It was very, very special for her to read all the email responses from teachers who couldn't make it (but wanted to encourage Marin, and affirm her decision), and from the two special previous teachers who DID come on a Sunday night (one from far away).  Marin handed out invitation cards to some friends at school, and was able to talk to many of them about this big event in her life.

Our crew took up the first two rows in the church, and with tears streaming and hearts bursting, we applauded Marin and all her fellow students who took this big step together.

I do somewhat regret not taking more pictures, but for this spiritual moment, I just wanted to be present with her and not stuck behind my phone.

Those who could join us at the baptism were: Nana & Grandpa, Nana & Poppy, Auntie Jessica and Cousin Owen, Uncle Brian/Auntie Alyssa/Baby Emma, friends Danya and Ethan, family besties the Bury family, and teachers Mr Brosnan (1st grade) and Mrs Anderson (2nd/3rd grade).

It was one of the best moments of my life. God bless you Marin as you walk with God for all your days!

On the big screen!