Christening

Today we had Ella's Baptism. For Godfather, Mark flew in from Chicago. The Godmothers had a bit shorter of a trip, Kristi & Kerri just had to jump in a cab. Kristi gave us a wonderful Baptismal gown that will become a great heirloom.

Mom & Ella before we headed out for the big day.

Ella even seemed to enjoy her little bonnet at times.

In a feat of good fortune, Mark's dad had been at seminary with Edward Cardinal Egan. As luck would have it they were together at a reunion recently, so the through "divine intervention" the venue for Ella's Baptism was The Cathedral of Saint Patrick on 5th Avenue. We were privileged to have the Rector of the Cathedral, Monsignor Ritchie perform Ella's Baptism. It was a beautiful spring day in the city. It was an intimate gathering, though we know we had a lot of family with us in spirit and in prayer.

The Baptismal Font was just to the left of the main alter. Being St. Patrick's, we were the second Baptism of the afternoon, in the midst of two weddings; and following ordination in the morning. Ella was a star through the whole sacrament, not a single tear was shed.

Ella, Monsignor Ritchie, and the Godparents. Father Ritchie made sure the Godparents understood how much work they had ahead of them helping Mom & Dad keep the faith. There is no doubt they'll be there for Ella as she grows up.

For some reason Ella and Monsignor Ritchie got along right from the start.

After all was said and done at the church, we went all went out for dinner at Rosa Mexicana. A good time was had by all.

When she wasn't sleeping, Ella was reviewing the table settings. Not surprisingly, Ella has a knack for decorative housewares.