Nearly 30 years ordained and I am still energized when officiating a baptism!
To me, the sacrament of baptism is the very visible and tangible sign that proclaims EVERYBODY'S IN! As with the other United Methodist sacrament of communion, we re-member and we celebrate the gift of God's grace, free, always, for all.
The early baptisms I officiated left me scared and nervous. With the yards of lace and silk most infants wear for their big day, I was worried there would be slippage and droppage. I literally placed my arms in the "holding baby position" and the parent placed said babe in my arms. I tell you days prior, I would practice with a stuffed animal holding and reaching for water and pouring... going for a little muscle memory to kick in.
Each baptism is a total rush.
I remember the baptism held on the Sunday folloiwng 9/11 --- a needed re-minder of hope and joy and possibilities for peace.
I recall following one baptism being asked by the dad if I would bless the baby's teddy bear. Of course! I'm real big on blessings and, other than maybe someone's pet snake (although I probably would) will offer blessing upon blessing upon all and any situation and moment. By the way, this action is not only designated for the ordained.....we all can and should bless and bless and bless again;
I always use a seashell to perform the baptism, the shell is one I picked up on the beach (don't fret, I bleach and clean it) and following the baptim there is the required lap around the sanctuary so all the congreagants can "ooh and ahh" and the baby can be mesmorized by the lights. This tour also solidifies the promise made to the child by every one in attendance --- to care for, support, guard, defend; that's a promise each child claims that day and every day onward. It's why I write out my baptism liturgy to include the name of the child so when the congregation makes their promise, the name of the child is spoken. Heavy stuff not to be taken lightly.