Catholic Christening Ceremony
The Catholic Church welcomes a new member to the Church through the Sacrament of Baptism. This is the Christening of an infant, child, or adult with holy water, washing away original sin. The Christening is a rebirth into live with Jesus.
Most Catholic parishes require the parents to attend a class before their baby is christened. This preparatory class is the first step toward committing your child to the Catholic faith. The class gives the parents a chance to get acquainted with each other before their infants are christened and gives them information on choosing godparents and the paperwork that is required.
At the time of the Christening, the celebrant will ask the godparents and parents to come to the front of the Church near the baptismal font. The celebrant will ask them to declare their faith with the three questions: Do you turn to Jesus, do you repent your sins, and do you renounce Satan? They must answer in the affirmative to these questions.
The parents and godparents are then asked the following questions:
1. Do you believe in God the Father who made Heaven and Earth?
2. Do you believe in His Son Jesus Christ who redeemed mankind?
3. Do you believe in His Holy Spirit who gives life to the people of God?
The celebrant then christens the infant with holy water, pouring over the infant's head while saying the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The celebrant will then anoint the child's forehead, lips, and heart with the oil of catechumens, saying to the infant, "We anoint you with the oil of salvation in the name of Christ our Savior; may he strengthen you with his power, who lives and reigns for ever and ever." A lighted candle is given to the godparents and parents representing the infant being committed to the light of Christ.
The godparents must make a promise to help raise the newly christened infant in the Catholic faith, nurturing Catholic beliefs, Sacraments, and assisting the child in living life with Jesus.
After the christening ceremony, it is time to celebrate with the newest member of God's Church. Giving christening gifts is traditional after a Baptism. The christened infant receives gifts from godparents, friends, and family members. Most Catholic christening gifts are religious in nature and a symbol of Christian faith.
Christening Gift Ideas:
• Multi-colored Rosary Bracelet – This striking, colored rosary bracelet is one of the most popular Catholic christening presents. It is an ideal remembrance of the day the honored child became a part of God's family. It is a quality sterling silver bracelet with many colored crystal beads. Include a rosary prayer with the bracelet for a lifelong commitment to a prayerful life with Christ.
• Angel Lapel Pin – The angel lapel pin is available in 14k yellow or white gold. Give this delicate pin to the newly baptized infant to wear as a gift of protection from the evils of the world. Include the Guardian Angel Prayer for the parents to say for the child each day. The parents will appreciate such a timeless, thoughtful Christening gift.
It is impossible to list all the wonderful gifts available as Catholic Christening gifts. Keep in mind patron saint medals, wall crosses, baby badges, charm bracelets, and crucifixes. All of these religious gifts are appropriate for such a joyous occasion.
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