William's Baptism

William checking out my Uncle John's beard (it was a hit!):

Three generations of Clark men:

I adore this picture:

William's baptism was lovely. The service was beautiful, and William was at his sweet, happy best. He loved the whole thing. :)

When I look back at William's baptism, here is the story that I will remember: About a month ago during our pre-baptism classes, our pastor was talking about how when someone is baptized, they aren't just joining our congregation or the Methodist church, they are joining God's Universal Church. As she explained that God's whole family will be present during the baptism, I just fell apart. Those of you who know me well know that I don't usually get emotional about my Dad (who passed away when I was 15), but for some reason the thought of him being in that room with us just really got to me. My father was a devout Christian and it would have pleased him so much that we are raising our children in the faith. Anyway, at the beginning of our service this weekend, the choir walked to the front of the sanctuary and sang "At the River." This was my Dad's favorite hymn, and I have a clear memory of him telling me, long before he was sick, that he loved it and wanted it played at his funeral. When my Dad died, our church's entire choir came and sang it for him - it was a powerfully emotional moment. I literally couldn't believe it was being sung this Sunday. I looked over at my Uncle (my Dad's identical twin brother) and saw the tears streaming down his cheeks. I know that this was my Dad's way of telling me that he was there. He wanted to be a part of his Grandson's special day. William, I know your Grandpa Jim would have loved you dearly - just as the rest of us do. Welcome to Christ's family, little one.