Could I have my blessing, please?

Andrew was one of the first children I baptized.  His grandmother brought him for Sunday School and worship once he was 3.  He had the face of a cherub, and when he would come forward for communion, kneeling at grandma's side, he would tilt his head back and watch as I'd made the sign of the cross on his forehead and pronounce a blessing.  It was definitely a Hallmark moment.


Time flew by and he was ready to participate fully in the communion meal.  It was a grand occasion for him, for his grandmother and for me.  As the family readied themselves to leave after the service, I wanted to share this moment with him again so I stopped to chat.

Grandma turned to me and said, "Andrew has a question.  Go ahead and ask."

"Could I have my blessing please?"

Apparently the meal was wonderful but the blessing was critical.   So I made the sign of the cross, told him of God's great love for him, Andrew, and did my very best not to tear up.

I pray that God's blessing continues to be critical to this young man, soon to graduate from high school.  I pray that I never forget this 30 inch saint whose day would not be complete without a blessing from God.

For all the saints, I give you thanks O Lord.