God Bless the Child

Christening outfit

Alyssa was baptized and confirmed at St. Maron's Church on November 29th, 2009. Mommy and Daddy were married by the same priest in the same Church; and, Teta and Jiddu were married in the same Church 34 years ago. Mommy also received the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation at St. Maron's. It is remarkable that 3 generations could be blessed in the same place.

Beginning of Sacrament

Alyssa's special day began with our family meeting at the Church after 11am Mass. The priest and deacon went through the beginning of the ceremony before walking to the "fountain" where Fr. Karam poured holy water on Alyssa's head and made the sign of the cross on her forehead with holy oil. The towel that was used to dry Alyssa's head was returned to us so that we could wring out the holy water and pour it onto the garden. This ritual signifies new life, and the holy water helps the plants to grow and flourish.

Holy water

After the ceremony, we took pictures and then gathered at the reception venue (The Hilton Garden Inn) across the street, which is the same location as Mommy and Daddy's rehearsal dinner. Alyssa gave each family a crystal cross as a favor. She also had an outfit change into her party dress given to her by her Godmother, Great Aunt Rosy. Alyssa's christening outfit, shoes, and bib were also gifts from Great Aunt Rosy. Uncle Joe is Alyssa's Godfather, and he gave an amazing speech in which he remembered those who passed away and could not be with us that day and that Alyssa had a great foundation for a life filled with love because of our amazing family. Alyssa is truly fortunate to have such wonderful godparents, and she gave each of them an engraved photo album and religious figurine as a small token of her appreciation. The album also included the following poem:

As parents, we are chosen by God above.

Godparents are chosen for devotion and love.

Of all the people we admire so much,

It is you who has the spiritual touch.

As you assume this honor of guidance and direction,

Please accept this gift with our love and affection.

Godmother, Great Aunt Rosy and Godfather, Uncle Joe

The proud parents and godparents

Appetizers at the luncheon included tabouleh, kibbi, and spinach pies. Dinner was oven-roasted chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and green beans and carrots. A chocolate cake with raspberry filling was served for dessert; but, we also had a personalized cassada cake for Alyssa, a wide variety of Middle Eastern pastries, and fruit salad. After Mommy and Daddy cut the cake with Alyssa, Great Aunt Mary Ann gave Alyssa some of the frosting, which she absolutely loved!

The crystal cross favors

The dessert table

Cutting the cake

Eating the frosting

Alyssa was exhausted by the end of the day. She had a great time with our family, and she loved being held by everyone. Thank you to our families who travelled from near and far to celebrate Alyssa's christening and for all of your love, support, and guidance. We are eternally grateful for all that you have done for us and continue to do.

So peaceful