The Baptism Bathtub

I was invited recently to celebrate the decision of an eighteen year old friend of my daughter's as she was baptized-in a non denominational church. I love this child of God and she's been a blessing to our family as a true friend. I thought she had already been baptized in the Catholic church as an infant. I prepared to dress up for this solemn occasion not really knowing what to expect. My daughter laughed at me as she emerged in ripped jeans and a hoodie. She shared that this place was really casual. 

As we made our way to the baptism I reflected back to the importance of embracing all those called to love Jesus--not just being with those in the Catholic faith. Many have left our sacred walls, images and traditions for non denominational places of worship. My focus was to celebrate a decision by an adult who chose this -- a truly special time of transformation for her. I was already so proud of her!

I was initially a bit shocked by the very ordinary building. Inside there was a simple baptism font that looked more like a spa tub. Children were running around excited to be baptized in bathing suits and shorts. There was a band in place and a black screen for sharing songs and yet, no visible or familiar symbols of faith, but the hearts were indeed in the right place. The auditorium was filled with humble souls dressed casually and present to hear scripture and join with the eight candidates on this special day. Many had their bibles opened and tabbed. I participated by singing, took notes on the bible reflections that the lay pastors shared, and I even shed a few tears--the event moved me because every decision to love more like Jesus is such a good decision. 

The bathtub font will forever be one of my life's special memories. Truth be told--I did truly miss the Catholic Church I know and love with it's magnificent adornments: stained glass representations of the Saints, sacramental images and a Mass celebration that included the life giving Liturgy of the Eucharist. 

Sometimes we can get stuck in what we feel is the "right" way to worship, but we can always learn from all those God puts in our path. The lay pastor shared, "the life of Jesus is a culture that invites everyone in - that's community. The way you live your life should be a life of God living in you and that should be a joy to others."

Maybe today we all need to get in our own spiritual bathtub and be cleansed of anything getting in the way of loving each other more, being less judgemental, and embracing our differences in more welcoming ways. I cherish my Catholic faith and our traditions. I love the way my soul is fed at Mass and the many peaceful opportunities available to me, but this event also fed my soul in a powerful way. Jesus was there in the bathtub with each and every beautiful soul and I felt His love, kindness and mercy in that building and with those families.