Our Commitment

Saturday morning, when most of the world was fast asleep, something special was in motion. The first light of dawn was just appearing, and Michael, Adam and I had our feet in the cold sand of Hollywood Beach, quietly watching the sun rise over the Atlantic ocean. Six years ago to the day, Michael proposed to me on this same beach, so it was fitting that we would return here on this occasion. As the light began to grow, we were joined by our nearest and dearest friends and family:

• Michael's mom Dianne and sister Megan, Andy, Austin & Emma who traveled down from the Jacksonville area to share this special day with us. This family has such a big heart.

• Mindy's mom Chris, who we can always count on to help us out with Adam. We are spoiled having her so close.

• Sarah, a true friend who would do anything for us and will remember any person, date or detail.

• Francois, Christie & Ryan, a wonderful and ever-generous family with whom we have been blessed to share life's joys, struggles and milestones.

• Rev. Chris, Marie & Noah, our favorite pastor-turned-great-friend, this family lights up a room and always has deep concern for everyone's happiness and well-being.

• Bud, Abby, Will, Chase & Luke. I cannot say enough about this family. They are mentors to us in many ways and continue to teach us about our faith, challenge our belief systems, and illustrate by example.

With the sun now up over the horizon, Michael, Adam and I led our group down to the water's edge. With Budy and Abby by our side, we watched as Rev. Chris filled a seashell with salt water and welcome everyone.

This was the day for Adam's baptism.

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We had been looking forward to this day for some time. We had discussed baptizing Adam in the church where we were married. That church, however, is no longer fitting our needs and is, in some ways, hindering our spiritual growth. I'm not sure who suggested a beach baptism, but the more we discussed it, the more right it felt. Where better place can you find God than in the beauty of nature, and how fitting that we would dedicate him at sunrise, the dawn of a new day. In Matthew 18:20, it states, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." This was church, and the congregation consisted of our loved ones who have and will be beside us raising Adam in faith.

It was especially important to Michael to name Godparents, and when the discussion arose, Michael and I looked at each other and said "Bud and Abby." It was a no brainer for us. We continue to learn so much from them, as a couple, as parents, and as Christians, and it doesn't hurt that they love Adam to pieces. We are honored that they accepted this responsibility, and we know they are committed to their new role. 

So, here it was, Saturday morning, our toes in the sand and the surf. Bud and Abby both read bible passages (Matthew 18:1-5 and Mark 10:13-16 for those playing along at home). Then Chris turned to Michael and I for our vows for Adam: to whole-heartedly give ourselves to Jesus Christ; to raise Adam in such a way that Adam will see Jesus Christ in all we do, in good times and bad; to promise to love him, teach him, and listen to him all days; and to commit to seeking out the fellowship of the church universal wherever we may go.

Secondly, Bud and Abby took vows to whole-heartedly give themselves to Jesus Christ; to promise to love Adam, pray for Adam and share their heart with Adam so that he will see Jesus Christ in them and know God is Love; and to encourage Adam and to be a part of his life regardless of geographic location.

And lastly, we watched our friends and family also vow to love, support, guide and encourage Adam through his spiritual journey.

With that, Chris took Adam in his arm, and with the salt water from the ocean, baptized Adam in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Oh, happy day!

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