Whether you are planning a baptism yourself, attending a christening or just want to find a little 'more about the options available to you then hopefully this section will help.
There are two types of ceremonies available; religious and nonreligious. Regardless of which type is chosen, the common theme throughout is love and surrounding the child with family and friends to celebrate the birth of the child and the life to come.
Religious Ceremonies:
Baptism is an initiation of the first child in religion. At a Catholic baptism, the parents of their declarations, the baby is baptized with holy water and a lit candle representing Jesus as the light of the world, is given to parents and godparents. The priest may ask parents to attend preparation classes to fully understand the meaning of baptism. Catholic Christenings are often held as a separate service for one or more children, without hymns and lasts approximately 30 minutes.
In a Church of England baptism, baptism occurs within the main church service on Sunday and the child is brought to the font, sprinkled with holy water, and parents and godparents promise to God that will bring the child in the faith Christian.
If you decide to go for a baptism, you must speak to the vicar at your local church. They explain the service, and can ask questions about your faith, and that of the godparents. You will then be able to book a date.
Secular (not religious) ceremonies:
There are a number of non-religious celebrations to choose from including a Baby-Naming Ceremony, Welcoming or Thanksgiving. These options are free of any commitment to the Christian faith. A British Humanist Association ceremony can take place any. Trained, licensed celebrant will help you create a unique and personal occasion. They can provide templates for ceremonies that you can adapt to their personal situation, and can suggest readings, poetry or music. You can include contributions from family / friends, and finish everything with a tea or buffet. These ceremonies last on average 20 minutes.
Baptisms usually take place within the first year of the child, although some parents wait until the baby is a bit 'bigger.
In general, photography is welcome During all types of ceremonies, but may be worth checking with the person who presides at the first congregation or gathering is likely to be invited to photograph the child, family and Godparents at specific points during the ceremony. Of course there can also be photographs before and after.
The child is usually dressed in a special christening gown / dress or garment heirloom. Women are expected to dress smartly - hats are not necessary, and for men, dresses or dress shirt and pants. Ties are often not a necessity, particularly for summer ceremonies though if you are the father or godfather, would be expected to wear a dress.
Usually after the ceremony a buffet or tea is held at the home of parent. The child will be presented to the family and friends, and baptism gifts are generally presented to the child. After the buffet, the official cake may be cut, and at this point, some people choose to plant a tree or dedicate a plant which grows with the child.
Role of godparents:
There are usually three godparents - two of the same sex of the child. The role of the godfather comes from the days when converts to the Christian church were usually adults whose parents were not Christians. The role of godparents had to provide a Christian mentor to help them in life. People also connect with the role of godfather to become a 'guardian' of the child should never be orphans. However, this should be written into a will with the permission of the same sponsors. Non-religious participants usually engage a 'mentor' who will watch over the child and keep them for life with the help, assistance and advice. Generally godparents are chosen for their Christian convictions, but also because they are close friends of the parents or family members. Godparents or guardians should be people who are going to be around to offer support for the child if necessary.
Baptism Gifts:
Many people prefer a traditional gift for a baptism as pewter, silver or porcelain, which are great gifts for the child to treasure. Another good idea is to provide a photo album or memory box to store precious memories of the child's special day. For religious ceremonies it is common for a silver cross and chain or a bible to be presented to the child. Gifts ideas also very nice for the occasion, such as a framed print name, or a plate or cup personalized baptism, or perhaps an engraved tankard or cufflinks for a boy.
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