Child baptism: Features of the process. Answers to the most frequently asked questions

Is it possible to baptize a child in winter? Won't he be cold?

You can baptize a child in winter. It's the twenty-first century. Modern temples have fairly good temperature conditions. And also high quality service.

The air temperature in churches is very comfortable. The water in the font is warm. Therefore, there is no need to worry - your child will not catch a cold during baptism. And it won't freeze.

There are situations when baptism is organized in a small church. In a room with only one entrance. In this case, you need to ask one of the guests of the Sacrament to stand guard at the door. And make sure that the entrance to the temple does not open wide. So that there is no draft.

Who are godparents?

Godparents or godparents are people who are responsible for raising the person being baptized in the Christian spirit. If necessary, they will even have to replace the child’s natural father and mother. The requirements for godparents are as follows: they must be baptized and churchgoers, adults, not married to each other and not intending to marry each other. Monks and the child’s own natural parents cannot be godparents. It is now customary for a child to have two godparents, a father and a mother, but this is not mandatory. One recipient is enough - for a boy it should be a man, for a girl it should be a woman.

How much does baptism cost? And why pay for it?

In churches of the Russian Federation and CIS countries, all Sacraments and other church events are held absolutely free. At least at the official level. Despite this, the temple will ask you to make a donation to the church. With these funds, the institution pays for electricity, carries out repair work, organizes fire safety measures, and so on. Therefore, paying money for the Sacrament is justified and quite normal.

Funds for baptism are usually donated to the priest who has the largest number of children. The clergy will tell you the required amount for the Sacrament upon preliminary communication.

What to do if there is no money for a donation, but you still want to baptize a child?

If you really have serious financial problems, then you are required to baptize your child for free. The clergy do not have the right to refuse. They can only do this if you are trying to deceive them that you are allegedly experiencing financial difficulties.

If you really have problems with money, then go to the rector of the temple. Describe your situation. And ask to baptize your child for free.

What to give a child for baptism

Traditionally, symbols of faith are given - a cross, an icon with the image of the patron saint - they are presented by godparents. They can also buy (or better yet, sew with their own hands) a baptismal diaper and shirt for a child’s baptism. By the way, it can then be passed on “by inheritance.”

But if you absolutely want to give something, choose gifts related to the Orthodox faith (Bible, rosary, amulet, icon) or traditional ones: a silver spoon, a rattle...

Christening gifts should be purely symbolic, because the main gift for your child is the sacrament itself, which opens a window to the righteous world and makes it possible to find a protector and patron.

In which church should a child be baptized?

If you have a favorite temple that you regularly visit, then perform the Sacrament of baptism there. If you don’t go to church too often, then you’ll have to look for a suitable place. You can do this by going to temples located near your area. Or by searching on the Internet.

Visit several churches. Check out the cost of baptism. Chat with the priests and church staff. Analyze their attitude towards you. If the church staff is respectful when communicating, and you like the atmosphere of the temple, then feel free to choose it.

If the employees are rude, or you simply don’t like something, then refuse a particular institution. And keep searching for the temple until you find a place you like.

Also, you can talk with your friends and acquaintances. They will recommend the temple in which they themselves baptized the child.

Why is Baptism performed?

Baptism is one of the seven Christian church sacraments. Church sacraments are especially important sacred rites in which the Lord himself invisibly participates, bestowing His grace on Christians. Such sacred rites include, for example, confession, wedding, Eucharist (Communion). But of particular importance is the Sacrament of Baptism, which is immediately followed by the Sacrament of Confirmation. They make a person a member of the Holy Church - which is why a child’s christening is needed.

It is customary for children to be baptized soon after birth. God's grace bestowed at Baptism influences the spiritual development of the child. With this sacrament his acquaintance with church life and the path to God begins. The child should be baptized as soon as possible also in order to eliminate the possibility of his sudden death in an unbaptized state.

Orthodox Sacrament of Baptism

Photo and video shooting for baptism

Photo and video shooting is a very important process for baptism. This is a significant event for all those present. Which should be captured with the highest quality possible. Your task is to hire a specialist photographer who will be able to capture the vivid emotions of the guests during the Sacrament.

There is no need to save money on shooting. Give preference to those photographers who work in the middle and high price segment. Most likely, they are professionals. They know how to behave in church during baptism. How to take photographs and film so as not to distract the priest from the Sacrament. And the rest of those present.

Godparents must have a mandatory conversation with the priest

According to modern rules of the Russian Orthodox Church, godparents must now have a mandatory conversation with the priest. This is necessary in order to enlighten them in all church affairs. Tell about the commandments of Jesus Christ. Remind about the main provisions of the Gospel. And about many other aspects of church life.

After the conversation is completed, the godparents are given a special certificate. It is presented before entering the Sacrament of Baptism. Unfortunately, godparents will not be allowed to participate in this process without a certificate. And they will not be able to baptize the child.

Some people have a negative attitude towards the process of talking with the priest. They don’t want to come to church and waste time getting a certificate.

Your job is to convince them to do it. Because without a certificate they do not have the right to baptize a child. And if they refuse, then perhaps you should think about changing your godparents. If they are not willing to spend just a day (or sometimes even less) with your son or daughter, then they will continue to behave this way in the future.

Baptism of a child - 13 traditions of the sacrament of baptism for parents to note

The sacrament of baptism is a sacred ritual, one of the most important moments in a person’s life. Nowadays, almost all parents perform the baptism ceremony, regardless of how much they are Christian believers.

Despite the fact that the child will not remember this day, and the parents are far from church life, the ritual must be treated with respect and trepidation.

The origin of the rite of baptism itself

Baptism or immersion in water is one of the most important Christian sacraments, recognized by all Christian denominations.

In ancient times, this rite was given great importance. It was performed by John the Baptist as a sign of repentance. The baptism of John on the Jordan River became the prototype of the baptismal rite among Christians.

In ancient times, baptism was carried out consciously, so infants were baptized extremely rarely. It was believed that there was no need to baptize children, since they were already sinless. Most people tried to postpone the ritual almost until their deathbed, in order to live longer in sin and die sinless.

This led to the church insisting on baptism as early as possible, performing the ceremony as early as the eighth day after birth.

For infant baptism, the consent of believing parents and godparents was required.

Traditions of choosing a baptismal name

An ancient tradition that continues to this day is the choice of a name.

As a rule, they turned to the Saints, where the names of all the saints are indicated. If the name given at birth was not in the Saints, they chose one that was consonant, that is, similar to the saint.

There was another way. If a child's birthday coincided with the saint's memorial day, he was given this name.

Today there are no strict rules; you can choose any one.

The name given at baptism is used in the sacraments of the church: liturgy, prayer services and other services.

Why is it so important to baptize a child as early as possible?

Baptism is carried out so that the child becomes a full member of the church.

Grace acquired in the sacrament is God's power, which strengthens good thoughts, makes it possible to comprehend spiritual truths, and has a beneficial effect on the development of better qualities.

The baptism of a baby is its spiritual birth, the upbringing and development of which completely depends on the values instilled in the family circle. Therefore, there is no need to worry that the child is not making a conscious choice in favor of the ritual.

Old signs about baptism

Christians believe that canceling baptisms is a bad omen. The ceremony must be performed on the scheduled day.
If a child is sick, he needs to wear baptismal clothes. It is believed that it will help you recover faster.
Clothes must be white, without red elements.
It is better not to give a gold cross for christening.
During the celebration, the recipients must try all the dishes on the table so that the baby’s life becomes abundant and rich.
You cannot disclose your name given at baptism to avoid damage.
You also cannot argue with the priest; you must agree with the name that the church gives.
Refusal of christening is considered a bad omen. If they call you godparents, you need to agree.

How to choose godparents?

Often godparents are chosen based on mercantile interests. Parents want to additionally provide their child with this choice by receiving expensive gifts. Or for the purpose of becoming related through a child to people who have a high position in society. This approach is erroneous and unacceptable for the church.

A godfather is a spiritual mentor, so the main criterion when choosing should be religiosity, true faith.

Recipients must be baptized and of age , because their main responsibility will be spiritual education.

It is believed that godparents are responsible for their ward before God. Usually they take a man and a woman as godfathers.

But you can limit yourself to one godfather . You just need to take into account that the recipient must be of the same sex as the godson.

The choice must be approached very responsibly, since after the completion of the ceremony it is impossible to change the godfather.

Who should not be taken as godparents?

The Church categorically prohibits choosing people who have close relationships as godparents. These include spouses, as well as persons planning to get married. This is explained by the fact that above all it is the spiritual relationship of the godparents, and not the physical one. And, of course, the parents themselves cannot become godparents, be they biological or adoptive.
Also, you cannot choose recipients belonging to a different faith. Only Orthodox Christians have the right to be godparents. Those who truly profess the Word of God, attend temple, fast, and are generally considered positive and reliable people will be good choices for baptism.

One of the most common misconceptions is that the first godson must be of the opposite sex to the godfather. For example, a woman can baptize a girl, it is not necessary to “start” with a boy, as many people think. This is an erroneous opinion that has no Christian roots.

When can you be baptized?

In the Ancient Church, newborns were baptized on the eighth day so that the baby would receive the protection of the Lord as early as possible.

It is also recommended to perform the ceremony earlier if the child is sick.

In all other cases, baptism takes place on the 40th day . Exactly so many days, according to the church, are necessary for the mother to be cleansed after childbirth and be able to be present. In addition, by this time the baby will be stronger and will be able to easily endure the ritual.

But do not worry if you were unable to perform the Sacrament on the 40th day, since the ritual can be performed throughout your life. Some believe that later baptism is an opportunity to receive forgiveness for the sins the child has committed.

After 7 years, the ceremony is performed with the consent of the child. After 14 years of age, a teenager can be baptized at will, without parental consent and without godparents.

Christening clothes

For the baptismal ceremony, you need to know that parents and godparents must wear crosses .

For women, a long dress with covered shoulders is suitable. The head must be covered. It is better to give up high heels and makeup.
For men there are no special guidelines regarding appearance.

Of course, you should not come to church in shorts or a beach top. Ultra-fashionable and modern clothing is not appropriate in the temple, regardless of the occasion.

Dressing modestly and decently is a wise choice.

Where does the ceremony take place?

Sometimes parents want to hold a baptism ceremony in their home, wanting to protect the child from prying eyes.

But for many reasons, the sacrament should be performed in the temple . The church has a solemn and majestic atmosphere, which makes it possible to receive communion and carry the child along the altar. People are baptized at home in rare cases - for example, when a child is sick and cannot get to church.

In some churches the ceremony takes place only on Saturday and Sunday , but it happens that they baptize every day. In any case, you need to register in advance.

Most churches conduct a preliminary interview or several lectures for parents so that godparents are aware of their responsibility and learn the basic truths.

How is it customary to celebrate christenings, is it necessary to set the table?

At the end of the ceremony, guests, godparents and family members gather together at the festive table.

According to the old tradition, it is necessary to have dishes made from dough and cereals as a treat. Usually they bake various pastries, pancakes and casseroles.

Photos and videos taken at the holiday will be interesting not only as a souvenir for parents, but also for the child himself when he grows up.

Priests recommend not to abuse alcoholic beverages on this bright day. Usually baptism is celebrated once, immediately after the ceremony.

Sometimes the day of the heavenly patron is celebrated, better known as name day. This is the day of remembrance of the saint in whose honor the name was given at baptism. Many people call name days Angel's Day. On this day, which is the anniversary of the christening, it is better to visit the church and attend the liturgy. In this way, godparents and godsons will be able to strengthen their spiritual connection.

Responsibilities of godparents

One of the main responsibilities of godparents is preparing for the ritual and purchasing a baptismal set . It includes a kryzhma (baptismal diaper), a shirt for the child, a cross and several candles.

The godfather's responsibilities include paying for the ceremony. The father buys a cross for a boy, and the mother buys a cross for a girl.

Before baptism, godparents must go to church, confess and receive communion. It is recommended to fast for several days before baptism.

In the future, godparents must teach the godson prayers, instill in him morality, Christian morality, and introduce him to religion.

What to give a child for baptism?

In addition to the baptismal set and cross, recipients give an icon depicting the saint in whose honor the child was named.

One of the traditional gifts is a silver spoon . Such a gift is a great way to teach a child to be independent and take care of his health, because silver has disinfecting properties. Spoons are often engraved with a name.

Also given at christenings are clothes, a Bible, dishes, an envelope for a baby, or a set of blankets and pillows .

Despite the fact that toys are rather a social gift, no one forbids giving them.

How is the baptism of a child performed in church?

Immediately before the start of baptism, prayers and chants are read in a special sequence. After which the confession of fidelity to Christ begins, where the godparents answer the priest’s questions.

Then - Holy Baptism - the most solemn part. Candles are lit, water and oil are illuminated. The priest baptizes the child in the font, immersing him three times and reading prayers. Immersion means the end of a past, sinful life. And leaving the font symbolizes the resurrection, the birth of a person.

Afterwards, the child is dressed in baptismal clothes, and the clergyman puts a pectoral cross on the child.

Baptism is not always the same, sometimes traditions may differ, some are outdated, others depend on where you live.

But, no matter how the ritual is carried out, the baptism of a child is an opportunity to get closer to God.

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What to do if godparents live in another city, but they need to have a conversation with the priest?

If your friends are in another city, then they can have an interview with the priest at their place of residence. To do this, they need to go to the temple located in their locality. Pass an interview. And receive a special certificate confirming that they are ready for the Sacrament. It operates in any city in Russia.

Girl's baptism and boy's baptism - are there any differences?

Usually, any christening for girls and boys is not much different. Everything happens according to the usual scenario, the only difference is that the girl will not be brought into the altar. At christening, a girl's head is covered with a headdress.

If the parents have chosen two godparents for their child, both a mother and a father, then in this case, the godmother first holds the child in her arms, and after dipping into the font, the godfather takes him in her arms.

In addition, the godfather must accept the child from the hands of the priest, and then bring him to the altar. Such actions are the main differences between the baptism ceremony of a girl and a boy.

It is worth remembering that every boy is a potential church minister in the future, and only men can serve at the altar. That’s why women are not allowed to the altar, because her main role is to be her husband’s assistant.

If you correctly follow all the requirements and Orthodox traditions regarding the rite of baptism of a child, then the child will grow up strong and happy. The correct choice of godparents, father and mother, will also have a beneficial effect on the fate of the child.

The spiritual life of a child with good godparents will develop, which means he will commit fewer bad deeds that are considered sinful in Christian life. A correct and balanced approach to the ordering of this issue will make the child protected and happy.

How to feed a child in church?

You need to feed your baby carefully while in the temple. Mom should have a special apron with her. And clothes for feeding. To avoid staining the floor and furniture.

If you want to breastfeed your child, please contact a church employee. Ask her to take you to a place where there are few people.

The main thing is to feed the baby as carefully as possible. So as not to dirty the temple. Otherwise, it will be a sign of disrespect towards the priest. And to other participants in the service.

Features of the Sacrament of Baptism

When baptism takes place, the baby is held exclusively by the godparents. Parents cannot do this. They are just watching what is happening.

Baptism lasts about 60 minutes. Before the Sacrament process, we recommend reading on the Internet how it works. To understand what is happening during it. And be aware of the sequence of actions.

Keep in mind that in some churches mothers are not allowed to attend the Sacrament of Baptism. We recommend that you clarify this aspect with your church in advance. So as not to get confused while attending the event.

Child christening - what is necessary

What is needed for a child's Baptism? It is necessary to purchase a cross, a baptismal shirt and a towel for him in advance. Everything you need to baptize a child can be purchased at any church store. As a rule, godparents do this. There are two traditions of Baptism of a child: on the eighth day after birth and on the fortieth. The first is due to the fact that it was on the eighth day that the newborn Christ was circumcised (that is, a rite of dedication to the Heavenly Father) and given the name Jesus.

People are most often baptized on the fortieth day. It is believed that from this day on, the mother of the child ceases to be “unclean” after childbirth and, after reading special cleansing prayers, can participate in any sacraments, including being present at the Baptism of her child. But you can choose any date, based on the circumstances and health of the baby.

Is the water in the font cold?

In modern churches the water in the font is quite warm. The temperature is comfortable. Thanks to this, the child will feel comfortable. And it won't freeze.

Before the Sacrament of Baptism, warm water is poured into the font. And then diluted a little with cold. When the baptism itself occurs, the water is warmed up.

You don't have to worry about this aspect. It is in the interests of the temple to ensure that the child is baptized in warm water and does not get sick. Clergy are well aware of the power of online reviews. They know that if even one child catches a cold during baptism, bad word about the temple will spread throughout the city. And the number of his parishioners will decrease.

It is advisable that your temple have a separate room for baptism. It is warm at any time of the year. And in winter, and summer, and autumn.

Christening of a child - birth in the Church

The Sacrament of Baptism in the Orthodox Church is performed as follows. On the eve of the sacrament, public conversations are held with the person wishing to be baptized. The priest explains the basics of Orthodoxy and talks about the sacrament of Baptism itself. It is important that a person is baptized not for the sake of observing formalities or traditions, but consciously, understanding the meaning and significance of this sacred rite.

During the sacrament, the person wishing to be baptized or his godfather must renounce Satan and the service of sin three times, declare publicly three times that he wants to join Christ and consciously read the Creed prayer. Then the priest blesses the water and reads special prayers while the person being baptized plunges into it three times. The priest also anoints the baptized person with holy oil and cuts off some of his hair.

The baptism of a newborn, as already mentioned, creates the foundation of his spiritual development in the bosom of the Orthodox Church. The baptism of an adult also washes away all previous sins. With the help of the Holy Spirit, the baptized person is spiritually reborn and dies to sin. Only a Baptized person can take part in other church sacraments. A baptized person is given grace, which leads a person to the salvation of his soul.

The prototype of Christian Baptism and the preparation for it was the Baptism performed by the prophet John the Baptist. Then people were baptized as a sign of repentance for their sins. It is known that John baptized Christ himself, although He had no sins.

“John restrained Him and said: I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me? But Jesus answered him, “Leave it now, for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:14-15).

Don't believe in prejudices

The Internet is actively spreading rumors that baptism is dangerous. That the priests are careless about the health of children. And they can harm them. Get a cold. And sometimes even drown. This is a lie.

We urge you not to believe rumors. They are being dispersed by opponents of religion. In order to turn away the residents of Russia and other countries from the church.

Baptism is a safe Sacrament. It is conducted by real professionals who will make sure that everything goes as safely as possible.