The Office - The Christening recap/review

Jim and Pam’s baby, Cece, was all set to be christened at a nice, formal, and small church gathering with an intimate reception. This being The Office, that all went wrong. Jim and Pam tried to keep it small, but Michael invited the entire office. Michael felt shut out, because Jim and Pam wouldn’t let him sit in the family section or be Cece’s godfather. Who cares, Michael? Her name is Cece. That means she is already lame. That’s not a great baby name for 2010. Anyway, Jim ruined Cece’s christening gown while changing her, so she had to be baptized in an Arcade Fire shirt. We kind of like that. That should be a thing. You should baptize your baby in a large shirt with the name of the rock band of your choice on it.

The reception didn’t go well for the Halperts either, because the pastor invited the entire congregation, and there wasn’t enough food. Jim left his baby with a senile old lady, who lost her. Jim lost it and blamed Angela, thinking she stole the baby out of jealousy. That was pretty funny.

Michael really liked church (which is funny, because his nemesis, Toby, had trouble even going into the building). The people were friendly, and accepting, and they did stuff together. We are surprised Michael didn’t get involved with organized religion before this. In a lot of ways, that community is perfect for him. Because most religions like you to be nice to people, they would have to be polite and happy to Michael’s face, and he would never pick up the subtle hints that he is disliked, so he would never be hurt. Impressed with the church’s idealism and togetherness, Michael (with Andy, who still wants to show off for Erin), hopped on a bus to go to a youth mission trip in Mexico. About an hour into the trip, Michael and Andy realized the impromptu mission trip was a mistake that could affect their jobs and personal lives, so they made the driver stop the bus. One of the mission trip kids got off with them (“Don’t tell my parents.”) Erin came to drive them home, and poor Andy didn’t get shotgun next to her.

We didn’t like this episode. Sometimes we think The Office is only still on to take up airtime. Why are you bad now, show? A few episodes this season have been solid, but none have been both funny and memorable. Jim and Pam seem judgmental, prudish, dorky, boring, and stodgy lately. What’s up with that? This show is dying a slow and painful, hum-drum death. It isn't awful, but it sure isn't good anymore.

Episode Grade: C-