Baptismal Customs
Christian religion celebrates baptism in remembrance of the baptism of Jesus. Baptism customs and traditions vary according to the religious affiliation and age of the baptismal candidate.
Some denominations baptize children and adults but not babies, because they believe the applicant must profess faith in God before baptism. Other denominations recognize and encourage infant baptism, followed by a later celebration when the child is older and can pledge his faith in Christ.
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Baptismal Candle
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Catholic parents often purchase the candle used in the baptism of the child, according to the Catholic Culture website. The priest lights the candle and passes it to the sponsor as he speaks a blessing to the child. The family takes the candle home and may use it again during other religious ceremonies such as first Communion, wedding and when receiving last rites.
Infant Baptisms or Christening
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Religious traditions that baptize infants, a ritual sometimes known as a christening, often use a long baptismal gown for the child. The family might have used this gown for several generations of infants. Sponsors, or godparents, sometimes stand with the parents during the ceremony and pledge to help raise the child and provide a godly example. The sponsors might even pledge to raise the child if something happens to the parents before the child reaches majority.
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Dutch Reform Baptismal Customs
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Wealthy Dutch settlers in New Amsterdam, now New York City, had elaborate baptismal customs that include a procession from the home to the Dutch Reform church with the baby dressed in baptismal finery and riding on a pillow. The midwife who attended the birth would attest that the baby was indeed a legitimate child born into the family, and the father would testify that the baby was born to himself and his wife. The mother might not attend if she was still recovering from the birth.
Following the church baptism, the family returned home to celebrate the child with food and wine and gifts. The parents would dress the child in a presentation outfit for this part of the celebration.
Russian Byzantine Catholic Traditions
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Among Russian Byzantine Catholic families in Slovakia, the midwife or the father traditionally takes the baby to the rectory to record the birth in the parish baptismal registry, according to Michael Roman, editor of "Rusyn Customs, Traditions and Superstitions At the Birth and Baptism of Children." An egg and a prayer book placed on the threshold symbolize the hope that the child will grow up to be a good Christian and firm in faith.
The godmother, age 15 or 16, and the godfather, 17 or 18, serve as sponsors of the child, according to Roman. They provide ceremonial gifts of money and linen cloth for the baby. The godmother might also supply the baptismal clothing if the family cannot. After recording the birth at the church, the party returns to the home for a celebration and gifts. The godmother begins the christening celebration with a traditional blessing. Guests place monetary gifts under the baby's pillow in hopes the child will prosper in life.
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References
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