one Lord, one faith, one baptism (Ephesians 4:5)

Yesterday Imogen was baptised. It was important for us that we made the public declaration of our commitment to her, and that she received the outward sign of the inward faith that we hope and pray that she will find.

Choosing Godparents was a difficult decision, balancing different qualities from different people, to give Imogen the best that we could. In the end we decided on four people - Wendy (Dave's sister), Tilly (Charlotte's Goddaughter), Hugh (an old friend of Charlotte's) and Mark (a friend from the village). We hope and pray that the decision was the right one and that they play a full role in Imogen's life and help to bring her to faith.


We know that the final decision about her faith will be hers - however much we read the bible with her and pray and talk to her about God, if she does not accept the gospel that is her choice.



Anyway, onto the baptism. It was a lovely day. So many friends and family joined us, and it was great to see everyone and share the day with them. We chose our 6th wedding anniversary for her baptism, which made it extra special.

Having family christening gowns on both sides of the family, we decided not to upset anyone, so had a new one for Imogen. So (with a little persuasion and reassurance) my Mum used some material from my wedding dress to make a gorgeous dress and jacket for Imogen. She also did some needle lace, creating a lovely cross (designed by Dad) for the front of the jacket.

My major worry for the day was that Imogen would puke in the font! I've never seen it happen with any baby and don't know where I got the thought from, but it didn't happen anyway, so I needn't have worried. In fact, Imogen was a star all day, hardly protesting at anything (a bit of a pet lip as the water ran down her face, and a few tears and grumblings when she was tired or hungry) and gave lots of smiles and cuddles to whoever wanted them!

Everyone has said that it was a lovely day - how could a baptism not be?! - and we're glad that it all went smoothly. But it was just the start of her journey with God, and I hope that it continues throughout her life.