Ella's Baby Dedication

Today is August 16, 2009—the day that Carmella Rose went to the front of the church for her dedication. Pastor Chip had many wonderful words of wisdom to share with us before he prayed over our family and especially little Carmella. Although I cannot repeat all that he said, I can share with you the verse and wishes we prepared for the pastor to say during the dedication.

The meaning of Carmella Rose:
Carmella was Mark’s paternal grandmother’s name.
Rose is her middle name because she is the “Rose of Sharon.”

We as Carmella’s parents pray that the Lord will give us the wisdom to teach and instruct her in the ways of the Lord. Our prayer for her is said best through Paul’s prayer to the Ephesians:

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your heart through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. [Ephesians 3: 16-19]

We love you Carmella. And a big thank you to all those who came to support us. We love you too.

Thank you also to Grandma and Grandpop S. who were there to share in this special moment. Although we had to say goodbye to you today, we feel very blessed that you were here to make this day even more special. Thanks!

[She isn't doing it in this photo, but during the prayer, the congregation reached their arms out to her to pray over her along with the pastor. She thought everyone was waving at her so she waved back, with both arms, very energetically. What a sweetie.]

[Ella was a little angel during the church service. She sang when we sang. And only shouted a few sounds of agreement toward the pastor during his message.]

[Here is her dedication outfit. It was something that our dear friends sent to us from South Africa. She just looked adorable in it.]