God’s greatest gift of all is new life, so I was overjoyed to be the Cyprus christening photographer chosen to shoot baby Sebastian’s baptism. The shoot took place at the beautiful Agios Ioannis Church in the lovely city of Limassol. The stunning, detailed religious paintings on the church’s ceiling were a particular treat, their glory lifting one’s spirit up to God, instilling a sense of awe, hope, and wonder.
Cyprus Christening Photographer: Shooting Sebastian`s Baptism
Unlike some babies, who get nervous and cranky surrounded by so many people, little Sebastian (as you can see from the photos) seemed largely content to trust in the arms of his proud family and the hands of the gentle priest, moving between slumber and an innocent curiosity at the proceedings. His angelic face radiated the kind of perfect purity only babies have on this mortal plane, something so cherubic and sweet that there are no words to truly describe it. Like the presence of God, it must simply be felt to be known.
Through the age-old ritual of baptism, baby Sebastian was brought into the fold of Christianity, committed by his loving and devoted parents to the path of Christ—a life of giving to others, of loving thy neighbour better than thyself, of never shunning those less fortunate. He was cleansed by the sacred waters, given a fresh slate on which to build his life, and set on the journey to one day being welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Once the ritual was complete—much to the pride and joy of the baby’s surrounding family—I traded in my role as a Cyprus christening photographer for something more relaxed and casual, as we headed out to dinner at the beautiful Garden Restaurant in Limassol. You may remember this restaurant from one of my prior christening shoots, as it was the same location where Rares`s parents chose to eat after his christening as well.
This restaurant, with its picturesque décor, warm atmosphere, and delicious traditional food, was the perfect way to end such a touching, sacred day: Celebrating God’s bounty with a feast, and cherishing the bright blessing of familial bonds.
