How to Word Baptism Invitations

The observance of the rite of baptism is a time of joy and fellowship in many different Christian denominations. Often, friends and family of the baptismal candidate are invited to be present for the administration of the rite, and help the candidate celebrate the occasion. This means that invitations to the event are normally sent out ahead of time. Here are some ideas of how to draft the invitation, as well as what details to include.

Instructions

1. Identify who is extending the invitation. For baptisms involving infants or small children, it is traditional for parents or guardians to issue the invitation. However, for children who are nearing their teens, or persons who have reached adulthood, it is customary for the baptismal candidate to issue the invitation to attend the rite.

2. Name the baptismal candidate in the text, using the full name of the candidate. This is a formal occasion, and one that is usually considered to be very important in the life of the individual. An event of this gravity calls for the use of proper names rather than nicknames.

3. Consider the faith tradition. Some Christian denominations consider baptism to be a sacrament of the church, while others classify the rite as an ordinance. Understanding the particular perception and verbiage commonly used in the faith that is administering the rite will help determine how the event of baptism is referred to in the invitation.

4. Provide information about the date and time for the baptism. Do this early in the text, as this will allow recipients of the invitation to immediately be able to determine if they are free to attend.

5. Include the location for the baptism. If this is a church, make sure to include the full name of the church. Regardless of location, a street address should be provided.

6. Note any small details that attendees should know about ahead of time. For example, some Christian traditions consider baptism to be the establishment of a covenant between the individual and God, and include another rite immediately afterward to extend formal church membership to the newly baptized individual. Guests should be prepared to remain for the observance of both rites.

7. Provide information about any post-baptismal social events, such as a gathering in the fellowship hall at the church or at the home of the newly baptized individual. Include an address for the post-baptismal events if they do not take place at the church.

Tips & Warnings

• Proper mode of dress varies among different Christian traditions. If something other than standard business attire is appropriate, such as head coverings for women, include this type of information as well.

• Don’t assume that everyone invited to the event is familiar with the faith tradition in question. For persons who may not be knowledgeable about how a particular tradition observes the rite of baptism, take the time to provide a small listing of tips along with the invitation.