Unconventional Pastor

Recently, I had the opportunity to preside over an unconventional Paris baptism. If you have been reading the blog, you know that I am a rather unconventional pastor. I work outside the box of traditional ideas of church and denomination. Yet, I am firmly rooted in the Reformed Protestant tradition. I also firmly believe that grace is larger than the walls of the church. My job is always to show grace, whether inside or outside of the church walls. I was ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA), and remain committed to the polity and tradition of my heritage, all while trying to take ministry (very literally) “outside.”

Unconventional Request

When the lovely S came to me with her story, I was immediately drawn to her. With a strong faith, and big heart, she was the picture of grace and beauty. She had been asked to be a Godmother, but she herself had never been baptized. In France, it can be quite complicated to be baptized. There are even fewer options for English speakers. As an English speaking officiant and pastor, I was delighted to be able to assist S in her journey toward baptism.

A Story of Faith

Hearing S’s story of faith was a delight and privilege. She pointed to her Grandmother’s strong faith as a witness to the love of Jesus in her life. After her Grandmother’s passing, S felt especially called to take the next big step in her journey and to be baptized. Moreover, she felt it would honor her Grandmother’s memory. Additionally, she knew that taking this next step would help pull her forward into a deeper and greater relationship with the God she came to know through her Grandmother’s witness.

Unconventional Paris Baptism

On the day of the baptism a small group of S’s family gathered. On the Champ de Mars, we held a small but lovely worship service. S selected the Scripture passage Isaiah 43:18-19 to be read over her. These beautiful words of Scripture were set for her as a promise of hope and new life. While it may have been an unconventional Paris baptism, it was a beautiful service of worship that was unique and perfect for S and her family.

Read the words of Isaiah 43:18-19 here.

The lovely and talented, Krystal Kenney, of Miss Paris Photo photographed this baptism. See her latest work on Instagram.

There were several other amazing vendors involved in this day (and that is for another post!). In the meantime, be sure to check out these amazing vendors on Instagram:

Styling & Florals: Madame de la Maison
Catering & Cakes: Janine Springall 
Champagne: Champagne Albert Bereens

Read more about Ruffled By Grace’s “unconventional” services here.