Baby Blessings

We didn't go to our own ward this week because we traveled down to Arizona to support Alex's brother Austin and our sister in law Sarah as they blessed their new baby Jackson.

Because I don't have a lesson break down from young women's this week, I have decided to take this weeks Monday post and dedicate it to explaining what a baby blessing is.

A baby blessing is a priesthood ordinance that is preformed by a father (or the closest priesthood holder in the child's life).

When giving the blessing only priesthood holders can participate that have been invited by the family {typically family members and close friends}. The men gather in a circle and hold the baby.

The person who gives the blessing:

1. Addresses Heavenly Father.

2. States that the blessing is given by the authority of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

3. Gives the child a name.

4.Gives a priesthood blessing as the Spirit directs.

5. Closes in the name of Jesus Christ.

Austin did a wonderful job when he blessed baby Jackson. He gave him specific directions and hopes for Jackson as he moved through life {he spoke about education, serving a mission, and finding a spouse}.

I love baby blessings and baby Jackson is just the cutest!