Max Franklin | Baptism Photos
I took a few photos at my nephew Max's baptism in Washington, D.C. this weekend at St. Stephen & the Incarnation Episcopal Church, appropriately taking place on the Sunday that Christ's baptism is celebrated. I would have taken photos during the actual ceremony, but a) they don't allow photos during ceremonies in the church, as is sometimes the case and b) I was IN the ceremony, as I am Max's godmother! I am so honored and happy to be a part of his life in this way. Max looked super adorable in his christening gown and bonnet which was his grandfather Jimmy's on his dad's side, and his booties which were passed down on his mom's side. The priest at this church is a wonderful man named Frank Dunn. He asked us some very interesting questions at our pre-ceremony meeting which really made us think about the meaning of being godparents, and we even talked about the movie The Godfather! St. Stephen's also has some serious punk rock/hardcore history. Being Ian Mackaye (of Minor Threat and Fugazi)'s church, it has hosted many shows over the years, and continues to do so these days! So I was feeling a heavy mix of tradition and progressiveness in this exceptional church, as we prepared for the ceremony. Frank delivered a moving sermon (read here in text: http://frankdunnsblog.blogspot.com/2015/01/by-water-and-spirit.html?spref=fb), then after doing some vows, we proceeded down the aisle to the baptismal font at the back of the church, followed by the entire congregation, who circled around the font. As we walked back, we sang "Wade in the Water" and the children of the church's Sunday School walked while playing percussion instruments. The minister baptized Max, gently pouring water from a silver pitcher over the crown of his head, then handing him to his godfather, my husband, Nick. Then...the priest dipped several evergreen branches in the water and sprinkled it over the whole congregation, flinging it over all of us! It was a very memorable celebration, and I'm glad I had a chance to take some family photos in the church after the christening. I hired a photographer to shoot my son Rocco's baptism almost two years ago, and I think more people should do that - we cherish our photos of Rocco being baptized. You will never regret having nice shots of your baby in that white gown to commemorate the special day!
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