Random reminder

Press, 24 September 1980, Page 28

Random reminder

FINGS AIN’T WOT THEY USED TO BE

Some churches are not as full on Sundays as they used to be. Congregaaons fluctuate or dwindle while priests tnd ministers try their utmost to counter the snorts-minded and the indifferent. Even duty and loyalty have few partisans or hold little appeal for those who use the church (reluctantly in too many cases) for weddings, the occasional funeral and, if mother insists, christenings. One family, steadfast in its Christian principles, arrived at their aarish church in preparation for the christening of their second child. An important event —one grandma had flown from the North Island, the other had ventured some hundreds of miles. The first child, son and heir, had delightful visions of the celebrations that were to follow. A naturally bright spark of three and a half years, he couldn’t remember his own christening and didn’t quite know what this was., all about, but he was ready to enjoy, what ever offered.

In due course the family advanced to the font and the young minister, was entrusted with the precious infant. He looked down and over , at the wide-eyed small brother. Inspiration prodded him, and he asked softly, “Would you like to help me christen your wee sister?” The answer was an eager nod and the lad was promptly lifted up by his father. The minister, holding the small fingers, dabbed them in the water and guided them so that a few drops fell on the placidly smiling baby. The service proceeded on its ritual way, but for master 3| it lacked any further interest. Bright eyes espied the two proud grannies sitting near the front. Wriggling from his father’s arms, he ran down the altar steps and was soon happily ensconced between the two elderly ladies. There was a deep breath of satisfaction as he looked up at them. “Well!” he said, “We got her done didn’t we?”