Baby Blessing

Baby blessings are an important tradition in our faith. Usually the father, if he has been ordained in the priesthood (i.e. has been given the authority to act in God's name) gives the blessing, but he is accompanied by other priesthood bearers who have a special connection to the baby. They stand in a circle around the baby, and the father, holding the baby, says a prayer, blessing the baby as he is inspired. The prayer must include a few specific phrases-- including the name of the baby-- but the rest is up to the father, as he sees fit. The blessing is a way of presenting a new infant before the congregation, naming him, and bestowing spiritual and physical blessings upon him or her.

In some ways it may seem similar to a christening or infant baptism, but a baby blessing differs in the sense that no sins are being cleansed. In fact, original sin-- or the belief that all babies are born with the sin of Adam-- is not part of our faith. We believe that babies are born sinless and innocent and that there is no need for baptism until the age of accountability (age 8).

I love baby blessings for so many reasons. The birth of a baby is such an important occasion, I think there needs to be an ordinance or ritual to mark its significance. Babies are such miracles they need to be celebrated. And second, I think its important for a community to take part in raising a child. And what a wonderful way to encourage this commitment--by asking a group of men to take part in the blessing of a baby.

On February 5th, Isaac had his baby blessing. In the circle were his two grandfathers, who flew into town for the occasion, as well as some of our dear friends here in Houston. Brent gave a beautiful blessing. Among other things, he blessed Isaac with health, with wisdom in his decision-making, and with the desire to serve others. I feel so much hope when I think of Isaac's future. We are so glad he is with us-- so that we can learn from him.