Why Do Babies Wear White Garments for Baptism?
White garments are traditional for baptism. For older people going through baptism, a white robe is common. For babies, elaborate white outfits are often used and passed down in families as heirlooms.
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History
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Catholics and some Protestant religions baptize babies. Some Christian religions forbid the baptism of babies.
Significance
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The white garment is a symbol of the cleansing from original sin during baptism.
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Practice
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Depending on the religious ceremony of the particular church, the baby is either presented in the white garment for baptism, or put in the garment as part of the baptismal rite.
Style
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The long, white gown now traditional to baptism was originally just traditional baby clothes. These gowns are now considered only for baptism, because styles for baby clothes have changed over the centuries.
Tradition
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Many families keep and pass down a baptismal gown that is used by all the children in the family.
Ties to Funeral Rites
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The pall (white cloth) that is draped over a casket during a Catholic funeral is a reminder of the white garment of baptism.
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