A Special Occasion for Many
On Sunday 17 August, Amber Rose was received and welcomed in to the church - the church worldwide as well as local - in the Service and Sacrament of Holy Baptism. This took place outdoors in the beautifully-kept churchyard of St Thomas's Church, Knappagh. It was a joy to welcome Amber, her family and sponsors.
Prior to the service the old eagle lectern was retrieved from inside the church and cleaned up carefully for the occasion.
Knappagh residents Shirley McKittrick and daughter Aine greeted and welcomed attendees and visitors.
Lucy Fabby, mum of Rebecca, who was the last person to be baptised at St Thomas's Knappagh while the church building was still open and in use, helped lead the prayers, along with Westport (Holy Trinity) parishioner, Mary Farr.
Our good friend James Kilbane sang two hymns which were appropriate for the occasion - Because He lives and Be not afraid. The final hymn was Lord, the light of your love is shining (Shine, Jesus, shine!).
The sermon touched on the justice theme apparent in the First Reading (Isaiah 5: 1-7). This reading was read by Amber's grandmother, Jenny Murray. The second reading was read by Steffi Jebaraj (Rector's Church Warden, Holy Trinity Church, Westport).
Following the Penitence, Presentation, Decision and Baptism parts of the service, Amber received the sign of the cross, to these rousing words from the Baptismal Service:
Christ claims you for his own.
+ Receive the sign of the cross.
Live as a disciple of Christ,
fight the good fight,
finish the race,
keep the faith.
Confess Christ crucified,
proclaim his resurrection,
look for his coming in glory.
May almighty God deliver you from the powers of darkness,
restore in you the image of his glory,
and lead you in the light and obedience of Christ,
to the glory of God the Father.
Amen.
The newly-baptised young person and her family were invited by the Rector to walk with her through the (outdoor) congregation, giving friends and supporters present the opportunity to welcome and congratulate Amber and the baptismal party.
Sincere thanks to all those who prepared for the day practically.
We pray for Amber to grow in grace and the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, and that she will know joy, purpose and the deep love of God as she embarks on the baptismal life, supported by her family, godparents, and church family. Amen +
Collect of the Day
Almighty God, who sent your Holy Spirit
to be the life and light of your Church:
Open our hearts to the riches of his grace,
that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit
in love and joy and peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Baptismal Collect
Almighty Father,
you have made us heirs through hope of your everlasting kingdom
and in the waters of baptism you have promised a measure of grace
overflowing to all eternity.
Take our sins and guilt away,
and so inflame us with the life of your Spirit
that we may know your favour and goodness towards us
and walk in newness of life, both now and for ever;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Pastoral care and enquiries:
Revd Suzanne Cousins, 083 800 3233
Email aughaval@tuam.anglican.org
Website aughaval.tlk.ie
Please see also Aughaval Parishes Facebook page.
