Baptism

We had Jack baptized the weekend after Thanksgiving while Godparents Tommy and Sara were in town.  It was a very small, intimate ceremony in the baptistry of beautiful Saint Dominic's Catholic Church, with just our immediate family present.  We are especially thankful that Nana and Grandpa Debban and Uncle Nick and Aunt Heather made the trip all the way from Fresno for the day.  We are incredibly blessed to have such a loving and supportive family. 

getting ready

Jack was baptized by a close family friend, Fr. Don Flickinger, who was also the officiant at our wedding.  He made the ceremony feel personal and I was so happy to have him do it!  We would also like to thank cousin Dorothy for keeping things lively during the ceremony.  "Want to hold the lighthouse." (it was a candle) will go down in my book of memories. 

Jack behaved perfectly, even as the water was poured over his head

Godparents, Parents, Fr. Flickinger, and of course, Jack

Jack's christening gown was really special.  And by God's good grace, he didn't even spit up on it!  My mom made the gown and bonnet out of her grandmother's old nightgown, which her grandmother had hand-embroidered with beautiful vines and leaves.  We estimate that the fabric is about 100 years old.  My mom was able to cut the fabric and sew it into a baby-sized gown while maintaining the original embroidery work and button closures.  I'm sure it will be in our family for many generations to come. 

christening gown

he's not sure about the bonnet

After the ceremony, we headed back to our apartment for a little party.  Salads, sandwiches, vino and yummy Jen Debban brownies were enjoyed by all, and everyone got in some quality time with the man of the hour.  Jack was pretty wiped out by the time everyone left, and he slept like an angel that night. 

Thank you again to Fr. Flickinger and to our families for helping make Jack's baptism day so special and fun.  We love you guys!