Answered Prayers

We are very blessed with some truly outstanding friends in our lives. While talking to a friend of mine several months ago we got on the topic of God Parents and the selection process. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, Godparents or Baptismal Sponsors are described in the following way:

When infants are solemnly baptized, persons assist at the ceremony to make profession of the faith in the child's
name...

These sponsors, in default of the child's parents, are obliged to instruct it concerning faith and morals. One sponsor is sufficient and not more than two are allowed. In the latter case, one should be male and the other female. The object of these restrictions is the fact that the sponsor contracts a spiritual relationship to the child and its parents which would be an impediment to marriage. Sponsors must themselves be baptized persons having the use of reason and they must have been designated as sponsors by the priest or parents. During the baptism they must physically touch the child either personally or by proxy. They are required, moreover, to have the intention of really assuming the obligations of godparents.

More directly, these individuals in conjunction with a child's parents are essential in shaping a child's faith and spiritual walk. They aid in developing morals, values and integrity.

Making the decision as to who should be a child's Godparent is a decision that often times becomes political (IE: Whose feelings will be hurt if we didn't choose them? or Will this make our family/friends happy?)

When my friend and I were having this discussion several months ago she said to me something that completely changed my way of thinking, "I tried to choose someone who I knew would be praying for my child." It was so powerful I don't think I could ever forget it.

Gabe and I have spent the past several months considering this simple statement. We're blessed by so many family members and friends who pray for our family. Throughout this pregnancy journey, however, we've been especially blessed with prayers. Recently, things became crystal clear to Gabe and I both.

When we looked at the people in our lives, one couple could not escape our thoughts. The same friend who gave me such poignant and powerful advice. The same friend who has prayed over our decision to conceive. The same friend who has prayed faithfully for my health as well as Tate's throughout this pregnancy. The same friend who prayed for Connor to adjust to his new sibling. A couple who are raising their four children in an amazing, strong Catholic home. A couple whose love and relationship models what a marriage should be. A couple raising their four children together, wrapped in His love, in spite of Daddy being deployed to Afghanistan. A couple full of faith, love, friendship and joy: Troy and Kyle. (Yes, Troy is a girl!)

Friday I spoke to Troy and asked her if she and Kyle would be willing to take on the role and responsibility of being Tate's God Parents. She answered with complete and total joy accepting the role of Godmother. (Answered prayer #1). After talking to Kyle (who is in month 9 of 15 serving as an amazing surgeon and much more in Afghanistan) she reported to me that he was almost giggling he was so happy to accept. (Answered prayer #2).

Gabe and I left mass this morning both smiling ear to ear. We feel completely and totally honored to be able to share this journey with these two amazing individuals. Knowing they will be there, praying and encouraging Tate throughout his days brings us such peace and joy. Thank you BOTH for being the answer to our prayer and for your amazing friendship.