How to get your child christened

How do non church-goers get their children Christened?

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41 replies

StarlightMcKenzie · 29/09/2013 00:10

Just that really. Moved to a new area (again) and I we are planning on settling here now. Woukd like to get our baby christened as he's already walking and chosen God Parents are about to give up on us.

Never were big church goers but tend to spend a couple of years dipping in and out of various ones before we get a regular (didn't mean it to sound so similar to going to the pub. Sorry).

But I don't want to wait that long and I'm beginning to feel Gods impatience.

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Gerbilectomy · 29/09/2013 00:15

Why on earth would a non-churchgoer want to have her child christened?

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prayerbook · 29/09/2013 00:16

Either ring the local church and speak to the vicar or administrator or turn up on a Sunday and catch them after the service. If you live in the parish they have an obligation to baptise your child. They may want you to attend church regularly before the baptism is arranged or may do some other preparation.
Hope you get a warm welcome.

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Ilovemydogandmydoglovesme · 29/09/2013 00:20

Non church-goers do it the same way as regular church-goers. We contact our local vicar and arrange it. I may not go to church much but my children are being christened the same as I was. It's traditional more than anything.

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StarlightMcKenzie · 29/09/2013 00:20

Oh. Good idea to ring them thanks.

Gerbil, Jesus want my children Christened. Tain't THEIR fault if their parents don't like churches now is it?

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OhDearNigel · 29/09/2013 00:20

Maybe they are Christians but don't attend a church, Gerbil. I have always been a Christian but have had periods of several years where I did not attend communal worship

Starlight, I would suggest maybe going to some family services in churches near you, feeling the atmosphere and going from there. Go along a few times and then bring up the topic with the vicar. Most churches have websites, I have found these quite a good way to get a feel for the ethos of the church (eg. King James Bible, happy clappy etc)

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Gerbilectomy · 29/09/2013 00:21

Meh. It all sounds a bit 'lifestyle' to me.

Do what you like - churches aren't generally difficult to join.

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StarlightMcKenzie · 29/09/2013 00:28

I don't want to join a church. I want my child Christened. I 'might' join a church for other reasons, but not for Christening purposes, but I know it coukd take me years to find one my family could tolerate. It's doing the 'peace' that freaks me out and my son with ASD freaks everyone else out. It woukd take time.

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apprenticemamma · 29/09/2013 00:59

Adding my tuppence in. I believe that it is perfectly acceptable to Christen your child, practice/teach Christian values to them and....to not rot in hell for not practicing communal worship. It works for us. We christened ds in my home town where I grew up, I will do the same with dc 2.

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MaryBS · 29/09/2013 09:18

In our church we do baptise children of non-churchgoers, although we would generally ask a few questions on why you'd like your child baptised. More and more churches are becoming ASD friendly. My son is Aspie, and they are very accepting of him and his quirks. All you can do is try phoning the church and seeing how they'd respond. If they have a website, that might give you some indication of how welcoming they'd be.

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meditrina · 29/09/2013 09:23

" If you live in the parish they have an obligation to baptise your child. "

This isn't true. Your CofE church has an obligation to marry anyone who lives in the parish, because marriage itself is a mix of national and church law and sacrament.

Baptism is sacrament, not law of the land, and it is at the discretion of the vicar (and/or the bishop if you escalate) whether to carry it out. Most will, but you have no right to insist.

"They may want you to attend church regularly before the baptism is arranged or may do some other preparation."

Very likely.

"Hope you get a warm welcome."

So do I!

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KatyPutTheCuttleOn · 29/09/2013 09:27

Most people who had their babies baptised at the churches that I have been to in the past are people we had never seen before and never saw again. It shouldn't be a problem.

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thegreenheartofmanyroundabouts · 29/09/2013 09:28

Most of the babies I baptise are from families which don't come to church. We have an afternoon service once a month that some of our baptism families come to is aimed at parents and children as it is designed for people who have little background in faith so we explain stuff and have fun with it. The morning service is still a bit formal for most families.

There are some heavy promises in the baptism service but once I've had a stab at explaining what it is about and people are happy to say them then I'm happy to baptise.

Communal worship is an important part of Christianity and I'd love it if more people came, but I can see that mornings don't always work for people with small children so that is why we created an afternoon service.

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QuintessentialShadows · 29/09/2013 09:32

Just start going to your neighbourhood churches. You will soon see which one you like and feel welcome to. When you have picked one you like, based on seeing their activities, whether they have nice childrens liturgies, a creche, etc, do community stuff that you like, you give them a call.

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birdybear · 29/09/2013 09:35

Jesus doesn't want them christened! Where in the bible or anywhere else do you get that from? It is imply meaningless tradition! The child doesn't even know what's going on! And i say that as a practising Christian. (my ds is going to be dedicated next month!)

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QuintessentialShadows · 29/09/2013 09:47

"my ds is going to be dedicated next month!" Another meaningless tradition to benefit the parents, eh?

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DropYourSword · 29/09/2013 09:51

I can't understand why you would want to if you don't attend church? Seems a bizarre decision to me!

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StarlightMcKenzie · 29/09/2013 09:52

Jesus want my children baptised. This is my belief.

I'm not sure I need stuff explaining, not at the basic level anyway. My DH and I were confirmed a few years ago and my other children are christened. I've also attended various bible study classes. However I don't 'mind' going over it again if the vicar can handle my family in his/her church.

I understand why Communal Worship is important, but for those of us that can't do it for many reasons, God will do home visits.

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QuintessentialShadows · 29/09/2013 10:03

There are many denominations of Christianity, and they have different viewpoints of baptism. Some do dedications and adult baptism as they interpret their bible thus. Others believe in infant/child baptism.

Catholics often emphasize what Peter says.
Peter explained what happens at baptism "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38).

The teaching was not restricted to adults. "For the promise is to you and to your children and to all that are far off, every one whom the Lord our God calls to him" (2:39). We also read: "Rise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name" (Acts 22:16).

These commands are not restricted to adults. There is a necessary connection between baptism and salvation, a connection explicitly stated in 1 Peter 3:21: "Baptism . . . now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ."

As I have been brought up Lutheran, we go very much by
"Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it" (Luke 18:15-17).
This is the main point of the baptism and any children's liturgy in a Lutheran church.

I think this Lutheran website discusses the issue well: www.orlutheran.com/html/trinfbap.html

However, so much about faith cant be explained or reasoned with, and I would not see anything strange in a non-church goer having a feeling that God wants her children baptized. I see that as OP saying that there is something in her telling her that she should open up the door to Jesus for her child, and that can never be a bad thing!

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QuintessentialShadows · 29/09/2013 10:03

"God will do home visits"

I totally agree that you can meet with God outside regular communal worship.

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StarlightMcKenzie · 29/09/2013 11:19

Thanks Quint. I hope I meet you in my church research. I may well stay then.........

It's such a shame that we had to move so much. Where we thought we were going to live forever had a great church and we had a good relationship with the tutters at the back when we brought our children (so easily bought with child-made crafts).

Perhaps we can have that again, though the reasons for our move made me fall out with God a bit. Though I am at liberty to cut off my nose to spite my face that doesn't extend to refusing Him my children.

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birdybear · 29/09/2013 12:50

Quintessentialshadows, a christening is people promising on behalf of the child something that the child knows nothing about and therefore are not making an informed choice to follow God, usually with non Christian god parents making promises they have no intentions of keeping.
A dedication is thanking God for the child, and asking for the help of the church to raise that child in a Christian family and then when the child is old enough to understand the beliefs, they can choose to believe if they wish to. Also just to ask God to look after and bless the child and the family in raising the child.
Very different :-)

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QuintessentialShadows · 29/09/2013 14:52

Birdy, some very sweeping statements about Christenings there, and parents' reasoning behind a Christening. Borderline insulting. Remember, it is just different ways of doing things. I have not dissed the ways of the Vineyard, or other baptist Churches.

I think you will find that most Christians have the same intentions for the child whether they bring them to a Christening or a dedication.
The issue of the "non-consenting" child is addressed later.

Dont forget that christened children who are old enough to decide for themselves go through a confirmation. Catholic children have both First Holy Communion and Confirmations, both of which serve to teach the child about faith, ethics and the bible.

Just as you will find some people bringing their child to a Christening with no intention of actually bringing the child up as a Christian, you will find people going through adult baptism for whatever reason, and who may not follow up on the faith side. I would say, these people are not actually Christians even if they go through with a ritual based in faith. You cant blame the actual Church for that. Nor other Christians, be they baptists or CofE or Catholics, or whatever denomination.

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thegreenheartofmanyroundabouts · 29/09/2013 16:21

In England you have a right to be baptised in the C of E church in the parish in which you live. The only reason to delay is in Canon (the law of the church) B22.4:

"No minister shall refuse or, save for the purpose of preparing or instructing the parents or guardians or godparents, delay to baptize any infant within his cure that is brought to the church to be baptized, provided that due notice has been given and the provisions relating to godparents in these Canons are observed. "

There are differing views about baptising babies in the C of E (and in the wider church) and some vicars/rectors will interpret the canon to mean that parents should be making a commitment to faith such as going on an alpha course or similar if they are not already members of the congregation of that church. Other churches are happy to baptise as long as the parents and godparents are happy to make the promises in good faith. I belong to the latter variety and had all of my three children baptised at around 6 months old.

Adult v infant baptism is one of those issues that can get Christians very hot under the collar....

If you want your baby/child baptised in a church outside of the parish you live in then the vicar/rector will usually suggest you go to your own parish where you have a right to be baptised. If you don't want to do that then they may suggest that you worship at that church for a period which could be up to six months and then you count as a member of the congregation and the baptism can go ahead.

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meditrina · 29/09/2013 18:37

Canonical law on baptisms here. Since 1960s, there has been no 'right' to baptism.

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How to organise a Christening or Baptism

Christening events can be as simple or complex as you’d like them to be. For many, the church service and picking the right godparents, are the only essentials they need to sort out. For others, they’d rather totally celebrate the occasion, holding a reception and having professional photographs etc. taken.
Regardless of the type of Christening, you’re looking to hold, here’s an overview of how best to organise it.

Choose the godparents

Traditionally, godparents were chosen because of their strong Christian beliefs and they’d play a key role in helping raise your child in the Christian faith. Nowadays, the role tends to be handed to friends and/or family members. There’s still an onus on them being able to nurture your child, as they grow up and provide them with help and support throughout their life. It is traditional to select three godparents – two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite sex.

Decide where you want your baby christened

Decide if you want the christening held at your local parish or at another church, such as where you got married or where you were christened.

Speak to the vicar of that parish

You can then speak to the vicar and find out if they’re happy to have your baby christened there. Some will ask basic questions, such as the name of the godparents, whilst others will want to know whether you and the godparents were baptised and the faith of everyone involved. The service may be held especially for you, or as part of the usual Sunday service – again, this varies, so you’ll need to get this clarified. You may also be expected to turn up a few times for Sunday service, so bear this in mind!

Book the christening

If you’re happy with the church you’ve selected and the vicar is happy to christen your baby, get the date confirmed and booked in.

Decide on the reception venue (if needed)

For some, it is traditional to hold a christening reception. This is either an afternoon tea or a sit-down meal and, it’s a good idea, if your guests are travelling any distance – the choice is down to you and your budget.

Get the venue and/or caterers booked (if needed)

If you’re looking to hold this at a venue other than your home and/or are looking to have it catered, you’ll need to decide on the venue and the caterers, and get them booked.

Send out invites

If the service is being held especially for you, you’ll want to remind everyone to turn up at least 10 minutes before the designated start time. The whole service will take about 30 minutes. If you’re looking to hold an after christening get-together, ask guests to RSVP.

Decide on a photographer (if needed)

Some parents prefer to go to the expense of hiring a professional photographer, but this isn’t essential. If you’d like to go down this route, you need to decide on the photographer and get them booked in too.

Decide on the christening cake (if needed)

Again, this is something that isn’t essential but does add a nice touch, especially if you’re having a christening reception. If you’re opting to have a cake made, make sure you leave yourself enough time to get it both ordered, made and delivered.

Order a christening gown

The christening gown is still an essential part of the christening service. It’s usually white or cream and, both boys and girls wear the gown. Depending on your choice of gown, you need to give yourself time to get this sorted – as you may need to track down the family heirloom, source and order a new (or vintage) one, or decide to have one made from your own wedding dress!

Finally, it’s worth remembering to take a change of clothes for your baby, just in case there are any accidents.

Once everything has been arranged, you can finally sit back and look forward to a beautiful christening!

For more information on hiring the Grim’s Dyke as your Christening Venue, please visit our Private Parties Page.

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How to baptize a child in the Orthodox Church: step by step instructions

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Two mobilized were married to their wives in the church at NVVKU

Each church has its own rules for conducting the sacrament of baptism. Some godparents will need to pass a preliminary interview with a priest. You can come somewhere by agreeing on the time of the ceremony by phone. There are churches where a price list for services is set, somewhere you will be asked to simply donate "to the temple", no matter how much you feel sorry for it. If you don’t have money, then, most likely, they will meet you halfway and baptize the child for free. nine0008

Still, there are a few rules that everyone who plans to be baptized must follow:

1. Decide on a godfather (grandparent) for the child.

Godparents are needed only for children under 12-14 years old - on the websites of different churches, data on the upper age limit diverge.

According to church traditions, the godmother should be a woman, and for a boy, a man. But this is not an iron rule, and you can deviate from it. It will not be a contradiction if, if necessary, the child has a godfather of the opposite sex. The main thing is that it should be a believing, church-going person. nine0003
Often, parishioners choose both godparents for the child: both the father and the mother. But it is important that they do not have to be husband and wife to each other - neither now nor in the future. To become godparents for children, including their relatives - grandfathers, grandmothers, uncles and aunts. But a mother - native or adoptive - cannot be a godmother for her child.

In addition, it is undesirable to take minors as godparents.

“If a person has not yet reached the age of majority, then his age should be such that he can realize the full burden of the responsibility he has taken on and will conscientiously fulfill his duties as a godfather,” notes Priest Dionisy Svechnikov (quote from the website of the Novosibirsk church of Oleg Bryansky). nine0017

Adults don't need receivers.

2. Select a temple.

Call or come by. Find out when the rite of baptism is performed and when you can talk with the priest.

You can baptize a child absolutely on any day, including during Lent. There are no restrictions in this matter. It all depends only on the specific church, which may not hold this sacrament on any given day for organizational or technical reasons. nine0003
3. Meet with the priest.

Answer all the questions he asks you. Ask your questions.

There are no special rules for preparing godparents for the ceremony. But at some churches, special talks are held to explain to a person the provisions of the Orthodox faith. Some priests recommend a three-day fast, confession and communion before the sacrament.

It is possible that the godmother or godfather will need to know the "Symbol of Faith" prayer. It is pronounced three times in the course of the ceremony and may be asked to read the recipient. nine0017

4. Choose the name that the child will receive at baptism.

The priest will help you in this matter. Not all modern names are in the calendar. Therefore, Alina, who is not in the calendar, can be called Angelina or Galina, and Yegor - George.

Photo: Pavel Komarov, nsknews.info

5. Prepare everything needed for baptism.

This is a cross, a towel and a baptismal shirt, which gives access to the chest, arms and legs of the baby for chrismation. nine0003
There is a tradition according to which the godfather takes upon himself the payment of the sacrament itself and the purchase of a pectoral cross for the boy. The godmother buys a cross for the girl and brings other things necessary for the ceremony. But these rules are not binding.

If you bought a cross or a chain not in a church shop, but in a jewelry store, then they need to be consecrated. To do this, it is enough to contact the priest before baptism.
nine0004 6. Come to church for the sacrament.

The ceremony will take about an hour. After baptism, parents will be given a certificate in which the name of the child and the date of the ceremony will be recorded.

7. Celebrate a happy event with family and friends.

The main thing, the priests say, is not to forget what the holiday is about.

What exactly to give a child for baptism, the church does not give advice. nine0017

“This issue does not lie in the spiritual realm, regulated by canonical rules and traditions. But I think that the gift should be useful and remind of the day of baptism. Useful gifts on the day of baptism could be icons, the Gospel, spiritual literature, prayer books, etc. In general, in church shops you can now find a lot of interesting and soulful things, so acquiring a worthy gift should not be a big difficulty, ”priest Dionisy Svechnikov notes . nine0017

The main news from the life of our city - subscribe to our group in Odnoklassniki.

#Instruction #Cultural city #Religion #Family #Children nine0003
Sacrament of Baptism | Importance of rites

The Sacrament of Baptism is one of the 7 Sacraments of the Orthodox Church . This is one of the most ancient Sacraments, and one of 3 (in addition to Eucharist and Marriage ), symbolizing the spiritual rebirth of a person, his birth into a new life and beginning with the exclamation of the priest "Blessed is the Kingdom . ..".

Baptism is the first Sacrament by which the Church greets people who come to God . Entry into the Church, the salvation of one's soul and communion with Eternal Life is possible through the Sacraments, the "pass" for participation in which is the first Sacrament in a person's spiritual life - Baptism. Baptism is accepted not in order not to get sick, to have success in life, to get rid of troubles, but in order to have Eternal Life in God.

Baptism before Christ

Baptism, in Greek “baptisma”, means “immersion in water”. In itself, the custom of water immersion is very ancient - much older than Christian baptism. Even in the Old Testament Church, there was a practice of water immersion, although in it they had a completely different meaning than in the New Testament. According to the Old Testament establishment, any Jew, after any defilement that happened to him, had to perform a special water ablution - “mikveh”. Also, when pagans who believed in the true God wanted to join the Old Testament Church, it was not customary to circumcise them; for them there was a different, special way of joining the Church. The Old Testament Church professed national exclusiveness, the chosenness of the Jews, and therefore in fullness did not allow anyone to join her, except for the sons of God's chosen people. For those who believed among the pagans, there were just water immersions, which were for them the way to enter the Church. Such people were called "gate proselytes", or else - "fearing God". nine0003
The following definition of this Sacrament is given in the Orthodox Catechism: carnal, sinful life, and is reborn from the Holy Spirit into spiritual, holy life. Since Baptism is a spiritual birth, and a person will be born once, this Sacrament is not repeated.

Purpose of Sacrament
The fruit of Baptism of a person should be that he ceases to live for himself and begins to live for Christ and other people, finding in this the fullness of life. A necessary condition for the acceptance of this great Sacrament by an adult is firm faith and repentance for all sins committed before Baptism. By this Sacrament, the person being baptized is introduced into the Church and becomes a member of it. A person who has become a Christian must be decisively reborn according to the word of the Lord, who said: If you love Me, keep My commandments (John 14; 15). And he promised to such: If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love (John 15:10).

History of the establishment of the Sacrament

Old Testament baptism . The history of the Old Testament Church knows the establishment of water baptism from the post-Maccabean period (beginning with the Roman conquest of Judea in 63 BC). It symbolized not only the physical, but also the moral cleansing of the person approaching it. With this baptism, John the Baptist baptized those who came to him in Bethabara under the Jordan (John 1; 28). When the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to John, they asked him: Why are you baptizing if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor a prophet? (John 1; 25). This question speaks indirectly of the great importance attached by the Jews to water baptism. Jesus Christ, having accepted this baptism from the Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord John in the waters of the Jordan, in order to fulfill all righteousness (Matt. 3; 15), thereby sanctified him. The prototypes of baptism are also visible in cleansing, ritual ablutions (See: Lev. 14; 8. 15; 5), which in Old Testament prophecies become symbols of cleansing from sins. nine0003
New Testament Baptism . Actually, the Sacrament of Baptism was established by Christ before His Ascension, when He said to the disciples: So go, make disciples of all peoples, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you all the days until the end of the age (Mt. 28; 19, 20). In general, all the sacraments existing in the Church were established directly by Christ, but in the Gospel He clearly speaks only of the three most important ones: Baptism, Communion and Repentance. From the words of the Lord, spoken by him in a nightly conversation with Nicodemus, it is clear that the Sacrament of Baptism is of exceptional importance for a person: unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be surprised at what I have said to you: you must be born again (John 3; 5-7).

Performer of the Sacrament of Baptism

Under normal circumstances, the Sacrament of Baptism is performed by bishops and priests of the Orthodox Church. In this case, the Sacrament will be performed in full accordance with the order described below.

But the Sacrament of Baptism is the only one of the seven Sacraments of the Orthodox Church, which, under certain circumstances, can be performed by a deacon, a psalm reader, a layperson, and even a woman. This can happen in the event of a real threat to the life of the person being baptized (for example, in case of a dangerous illness of a child). But Baptism can be performed in this case only if the necessary conditions are met. The lay person who will baptize in the circumstances described above must:

1) be a believing Christian;

2) pronounce correctly the mystical words : “The servant of God (servant of God, name) is baptized in the name of the Father (first immersion), amen, and of the Son (second immersion), amen, and of the Holy Spirit (third immersion), amen » ;

3) perform three immersions of the person being baptized in water at those moments of the sacramental prayer that are indicated in the second condition.

If a person baptized by a layman (subject to three conditions) dies, the Sacrament performed is considered valid and this gives the right to commemorate the deceased during worship as a full member of the Church of Christ. If he recovers, then his Baptism should be supplemented by the performance of the Sacrament of Chrismation over him. nine0003
If Baptism was performed incorrectly, that is, the above conditions were not met, the priest must perform the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation according to the usual rites.

If it is not known whether a person has been baptized and there is no way to find out, then he can be baptized again, although the Sacrament of Baptism is unique. If suddenly this turns out to be a second Baptism, then the ignorance of the baptized will not be imputed to him as a fault. In such doubtful cases, the Ribbon of Metropolitan Peter Mohyla proposes to add the following words to the sacramental formula: “ if not baptized is “, although the ancient Church did not know such a “conditional” Baptism.

Place and time of Baptism

The modern practice of performing the Sacrament of Baptism is such that, for the most part, it is performed in church , in that part of it that is intended for this - in the baptistery. In some places there are separate baptismal churches . Recently, the practice of the ancient Church has also begun to revive, which consists in the fact that mass Baptism was performed in natural waters .

Concerning the time of Baptism , the remark about the need to celebrate the Sacrament before the Liturgy , so that the baptized person could partake of the Holy Mysteries, can serve as significant. But this practice has almost no distribution. For the most part, Baptism is performed during the day, and the newly baptized receives communion either the next day, or in another short time.

Godparents - godparents

Godparents (Greek . anadehumenos - guarantor for the debtor) - a person who assumes the obligation to instruct the godson in spiritual life, pray for him, monitor his upbringing, teach a pious life, diligence, meekness, temperance, love and other virtues. The godfather also bears part of the responsibility for the actions of his godson. nine0003
As already noted, only one sponsor is considered necessary - a man for a male person being baptized or a woman for a female person. But, according to a tradition that has taken root in Russia since the 15th century, there are two recipients: a man and a woman.

Throughout the course of the Sacrament, the recipients hold their godchildren in their arms. After the baby has been immersed in the font three times, the recipient (of the same gender as the baby) must wipe the child's body with a clean diaper or towel. In addition, the recipient must read the Symbol of Faith at the appropriate moment of the rite of the Sacrament and give answers to the priest's questions about the renunciation of Satan and union with Christ. nine0003
When the child reaches a conscious age, the sponsor will have to explain to him the basics of the Orthodox faith, lead him to Communion and take care of his moral condition.

When choosing godparents for their children, parents should be guided primarily not by considerations of their high social or property status, but by the confidence that future godparents, being themselves faithful children of the Orthodox Church, will be able to fulfill the duties that the institution of adoption imposes on them. nine0003

Who cannot be a godfather
According to the norms of the Synodal period of the Russian Church, “insane, completely ignorant of the faith, as well as criminals, obvious sinners and all persons in general who have fallen low in public opinion, according to their moral behavior . .. Those who have not been to confession and Holy Communion for 5-10 years, of course, due to negligence, cannot give guidance and edification to those perceived from the font in their lives, which is a duty to the recipients. nine0003
Today, there are several categories of people who cannot be the recipients of a particular person according to a number of criteria. This is a certain degree of kinship, and monastic vows given by a person who wants to be offered to become the godparent of a child or an adult.

The following persons cannot be godparents:

1. Monks and nuns.

2. Parents for their own children.

3. Persons who are married to each other (or the bride and groom) cannot baptize one baby, because with spiritual kinship, married life is unacceptable. At the same time, spouses are allowed to be godparents of different children of the same parents, but at different times. nine0003
4. Unbelievers.

5. Unbaptized.

6. Minors.

7. Mentally abnormal (mentally ill) people.

8. Persons who came to the temple in a state of intoxication.

As a last resort, Baptism is allowed even without godparents, then the priest himself is considered the godfather. The father and mother may be present at the Baptism of their own child. But the mother of the baptized may not be allowed to participate in the Sacrament if the prayer of the 40th day is not read over her.

Two small prayers of godparents for their godchildren :
Lord Jesus Christ, be Thy mercy on my godson (godchild) (my) (names), keep him (her) under Thy shelter, cover from all evil lust, marry from him (her) every enemy and adversary, open his (her) ears and eyes of the heart, grant tenderness and humility to his (her) heart .

Save, O Lord, and have mercy on my godson (goddaughter) (my) (names) and enlighten him (her) with the light of the mind of Thy Holy Gospel and guide him (her) on the path of Thy commandments and teach him (her), Savior, do Thy will, as Thou art our God, and to Thee we send glory, to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and forever and ever. Amen .

Order of celebration (rites) of the Sacrament of Baptism

The surest way to understand the spiritual meaning of each Sacrament is a deep study of its rites (rite), that is, the sequence of sacred actions and prayers. The Sacrament itself, through its visible image (that is, sacred rites and prayers), has an uplifting spiritual effect on the souls of believers, since a person immersed in sensual life needs external signs in order to become capable of contemplating invisible objects. Therefore, the entire ritual composition of the Sacraments and Orthodox worship as a whole, permeated with symbolism, should be perceived by the minds of believers as a path to communion with God. nine0003
Scheme of worship Sacrament of Baptism

Prayers and rituals preceding Baptism

2. Prayer for the naming of a name on the eighth day (“in a hedgehog appoint a boy who takes a name on his 8th birthday”) .

3. Prayers of the 40th day (“for the woman in childbirth, forty days each”) .

Follow-up of the rank of announcement

1. Prayer of annunciation (“in the hedgehog to make an catechumen”).

2. Prayers forbidding evil spirits.

3. Renunciation of Satan.

4. Confession of fidelity ("combination") to Christ.

5. Confession of the Creed.

Following the Holy Baptism

Before the Baptism, the font is censed and candles are lit on its eastern side. The initial exclamation of the priest is the same as in the Liturgy: "Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and forever and ever." Amen .

1. Consecration of water.

2. Consecration of oil.

3. Baptism.

4. Dressing the newly baptized in white clothes.

Rites and prayers preceding Baptism

Significance of preparatory rites . The Russian Church is living through a unique moment in its history. Today, as in the ancient Christian Church, adults resort to the Sacrament of Baptism, fully formed personalities. That Sacrament, which during the last few centuries before the tragedy of the beginning of the 20th century was performed almost exclusively on infants, has become the lot of adults as well. nine0003

In this regard, logically, the institution of catechumens (catechumens), that is, persons consciously preparing to enter the Church, should have been restored. Indeed, in the ancient Church, those who were preparing to receive Baptism were gradually introduced into her life. For a significant period of time, which ranged from 40 days to three years, they studied the truths of the faith, read the Holy Scriptures, and took part in common prayers. The important point was that the bishop, to whom a person wishing to be baptized came, tested his moral qualities and the sincerity of his desire to become a Christian. nine0003

It is clear that much of this practice of the early Christian Church in modern conditions is impossible for various reasons. But catechism talks before Baptism, the reading of the Holy Scriptures by the catechumens, Orthodox literature of the corresponding content, common prayers in the church are not only available, but should be obligatory. The sacrament of Baptism should not be profaned and turned into an ethnographic rite performed for purposes that have nothing to do with the essence of Christianity. Moreover, the preparatory rites, which were essential for the early Church, did not disappear and did not subsequently become “infantile” (because of the age of those brought to Baptism), but to this day they have retained the “adult” service, which has always been an integral part of this Sacrament. Thus, the preparation for the Sacrament of Baptism of an adult serves his conscious entry into the Orthodox Church. nine0003

As for Baptism of infants , who are also brought to an Orthodox church according to the faith of their parents, here you need to adhere to the centuries-old practice of the Church. It is based on Canonical regulations: the already mentioned canon 124 of the Council of Carthage and canon 84 of the VI Ecumenical Council (680), which prescribe not to interfere with the Baptism of infants. The Church Fathers also left direct indications of the need for their Baptism: “Do you have a baby? — Don't let the damage increase; let it be consecrated in infancy and consecrated to the Spirit from young nails” (St. Gregory the Theologian, “Sermon for Baptism”). nine0003

Following the rite of proclamation

Prayer of proclamation

("in the hedgehog of the catechumen")

Preparing adults for Baptism . An adult who wants to be baptized must have an idea about the most important components of the Orthodox faith . If the baptized did not go to catechumens, then the knowledge that is given there, he must draw on his own from Orthodox literature of the appropriate content. He must know the main part of the dogmatic teaching about the Holy Trinity, the Incarnation of the Son of God, His Cross Sacrifice and Resurrection, about the Church of Christ and the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Communion, and other absolutely necessary information of a catechetical nature. In addition, you need to know by heart the Creed (which can be found in any prayer book) and the two most important prayers : The Lord’s Prayer (“Our Father ...”) and “Virgin Mother of God, rejoice ...” . An adult should, if possible, prepare himself for the Sacrament of Baptism by a three-day (and preferably seven-day) fast , that is, refusing to eat meat, dairy food and eggs, alcohol, smoking, rude expressions, as well as reconciliation with those with whom he is in a quarrel with. Married people should abstain from conjugal intercourse during this time. nine0003

Preparation for the celebration of the Sacrament in the temple is accompanied by special prayers that open the rite of pronouncement. But before reading these prayers, the priest performs another series of actions: uncovered, unshod, having a hand share (down), and blows on his face three times, and marks his forehead and Persian three times, and lays his hand on his head . .. ". nine0003

The triple cross-shaped breath on the person being baptized symbolically recalls the moment of creation: the Lord God created man from the dust of the ground, and breathed into his face the breath of life, and man became a living soul (Gen. 2; 7). Just as when creating a person, God breathed into his face the breath of life , so when recreating him, the priest blows three times on the face of the person being baptized. After that, the priest blesses the person being baptized three times and, placing his hand on his head, begins the reading of prayers. The hand of the clergyman at this moment symbolizes the hand of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and the fact that it lies on the head is a symbol of protection, refuge and blessing. nine0003

Babies at the time of the beginning of the Sacrament of Baptism must be in the same swaddling clothes , which the priest opens so that the baby's face and chest are free. Youths (over seven years old) and adults cover their bodies for the time of reading prayers and consecrating the water with a sheet brought with them. At the very moment of Baptism, the sheet must be removed. In addition, all outsiders who are not directly involved in the performance of the Sacrament of Baptism must be removed from the baptismal. nine0003

A newly baptized person will become a full member of the Church of Christ on this day and will be able to begin the second, most important of the Sacraments - Communion. To do this, he needs to come to the temple on an empty stomach (do not eat or drink from 12 noon the previous day until he takes communion).

Prayers for the prohibition of evil spirits

According to the teaching of the Church, based on biblical evidence, prophetic revelations and her mystical experience, the source of evil in the world is not abstract, but quite definitely personified in fallen spiritual beings. These are active demonic forces, the presence and activity of which for most people is far from always clear and conscious. Nevertheless, their activity, which was marked at the dawn of mankind by the expulsion of the ancestors from Paradise, remains as destructive as before. nine0003

A person who wants to be baptized needs to be prepared for the fact that conditions may arise that are not natural for him at ordinary times : passionate habits and sinful thoughts will intensify, indifference to what is happening will appear, causeless anger, arrogance, conceited thoughts will arise and other. All this is evidence of the increased influence of demonic forces on a person.

That is why in the rank of announcement there are three prayers of prohibition against evil spirits: “The content of these prohibitions is as follows: the first is to cut off (repel) the devil and all his actions with divine names and sacraments that are terrible for him, expelling the devil, commands his demons to flee from man and do not harm him. Similarly, the second prohibition casts out demons with the Divine Name. The third prohibition is at the same time a prayer offered to God, imploring to completely expel the evil spirit from the creation of God and confirm it in the faith ”(St. Cyril of Jerusalem. “Catechetical Teaching”). nine0003

Renunciation of Satan

After the prohibition prayers, the priest turns the person being baptized towards the west, the symbol of darkness and dark forces. In the rite following this, the baptized must renounce his former sinful habits, renounce pride and self-affirmation, and, as the Apostle Paul says, put aside the former way of life of the old man, corrupted in seductive lusts (Eph. 4; 22).

The person to be baptized should stand with arms upraised (lifted up), symbolizing his submission to Christ. According to John Chrysostom, this submission "turns slavery into freedom... returns from a foreign land to their homeland, to Heavenly Jerusalem...". nine0003

The priest will ask him questions, and he will have to consciously answer them. Therefore, both the godparents (if they are baptizing a baby) and the godson need to know these questions.

The priest asks:

“Do you deny Satan, and all his deeds, and all his Aggels (demons), and all his ministry, and all his pride?”

And the catechumen or his godfather answers and says: “I deny”.

Questions and answers are repeated three times. When an infant is baptized, either the godfather or the godmother gives answers for him, depending on who is being baptized: a boy or a girl. nine0003

And further — the priest of the person being baptized asks :

“Have you renounced Satan?”

And the catechumen or godfather (godfather) answers him:

“I renounced.”

Same the priest says :

“Blow and spit on him.”

After that, the one being baptized stands under the protection of Christ, taking, according to the word of the Apostle Paul, the shield of faith .., in order to be able to quench all the fiery arrows of the evil one (Eph. 6; 16). nine0003

Confession of fidelity (“combination”) to Christ

After the person being baptized has denied Satan, the priest turns him to the east: “When you deny Satan, completely breaking off all union with him, and the ancient agreement with hell, then the paradise of God is opened to you , planted in the east, from where our forefather was expelled for a crime. Meaning this, you turned from the west to the east, the land of the world” (St. Cyril of Jerusalem). At this moment, the hands of the person being baptized are lowered, symbolizing his agreement with Christ and obedience to Him. nine0003

Then the person being baptized (or the godfather of the baby) confesses allegiance to Christ three times.

And the priest (says) to him :

“Do you combine (are you combined) with Christ?”

And the catechumen or godfather answers , saying:

“I am united”.

And then - again and again the priest says to him :

"Have you been united with Christ?"

And answers :

"Combined".

And paki says :

“And do you believe Him?”

And says :

"I believe in Him as King and God."

This is a very serious decision - because it is forever. Further - only faith and fidelity, regardless of any circumstances, for, according to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, no one who puts his hand on the plow and looks back is reliable for the Kingdom of God (Lk. 9; 62) .

Profession of the Creed

The creed contains in abbreviated form all Orthodox dogma all Christian truths. Both in ancient times and now, knowledge of the Creed is a necessary condition in order to come to Baptism. The creed is divided into 12 members. The first member speaks of God the Father, further up to the seventh inclusive - about God the Son, in the eighth - about God the Holy Spirit, in the ninth - about the Church, in the tenth - about Baptism, in the eleventh - about the resurrection of the dead, in the twelfth - about eternal life . nine0003

There were several brief creeds in the ancient Church, but when false doctrines about God the Son and God the Holy Spirit appeared in the 4th century, it became necessary to supplement and clarify them. The modern Creed was drawn up by the Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council held in Nicaea in 325 (the first seven members of the Creed) and the Second Ecumenical Council held in 381 in Constantinople (the remaining five members).

Creed

Church Slavonic	Russian
1. I believe in one God the Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible.	1. I believe in one God the Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, of everything visible and invisible.
2. And into one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only Begotten, Who was born from the Father before all ages: Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, Whom all was. nine0523	2. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only Begotten, begotten of the Father before all ages: Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, uncreated, one being with the Father, by whom all things were created.
3. For the sake of us and for our salvation descended from heaven and incarnated from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became human.	3. For the sake of us people and for the sake of our salvation descended from heaven and took flesh from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became a man. nine0523
4. Crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffering, and buried.	4. Crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered, and was buried.
5. And he rose again on the third day, according to the Scriptures.	5. And risen on the third day, according to the Scriptures.
6. And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father.	6. And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father.
7. And the packs of the coming with glory to judge the living and the dead, His kingdom will have no end.	7. And coming again with glory to judge the living and the dead, His kingdom will have no end.
8. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, Life-Giving, Who proceeds from the Father, Who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets.	8. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, who gives life, who proceeds from the Father, who is worshiped and glorified with the Father and the Son, who spoke through the prophets. nine0523
9. Into one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.	9. Into one, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
10. I confess one baptism for the remission of sins.	10. I acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
11. Tea of the resurrection of the dead.	11. I await the resurrection of the dead.
12. And the life of the next century. Amen	12. And the life of the next century. Amen (that's right). nine0523

At the end of the reading of the Creed , the priest says to the baptized :

And answers (the baptized says):

“Come together.”

And again he says (the priest repeats):

“And do you believe Him?”

And he says (says the one being baptized):

"I believe Him, as King and God. "

Then The creed is read two more times . After the person being baptized reads the Creed a second time, followed by the same questions and answers . For the third time the priest asks the question three times and after the answer of the baptized person “Come together” he says the following :

“And worship Him.”

After these words of the priest , the newly baptized, making the sign of the cross, bows towards the altar , saying:

“I worship the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Trinity Consubstantial and Indivisible.”

For a believer, this worship of God is necessary for him to overcome his pride and establish true freedom and dignity in Christ. nine0003

Following Holy Baptism

Before performing the Sacrament of Baptism, the priest puts on white robes: epitrachelion, handrails and phelonion. These clothes of a priest symbolize the new life brought to earth by the Lord Jesus Christ. The censing of the font and all those present during the performance of the Sacrament is performed.

As already mentioned, is extremely important the role of the godfather (godfather) , who is called the godfather "by birth from the Holy Spirit" and thus becomes a close relative (second degree of relationship) to the physical parents of the infant. It is his duty to constantly remind his godson of the content of the vows given to God at Baptism, the truths of the Christian faith and the way of life that should be inherent in a Christian. The ultimate goal of the recipient is to educate the godson in the Orthodox faith, in the spirit and power of piety. nine0003

Substance of the Sacrament and consecration of water

One of the most important parts of the rite of Baptism begins - the consecration of water for the performance of the Sacrament. The Substance of the Sacrament - water - is one of the most ancient and universal religious symbols.

The consecration of water for Baptism is one of the most important parts of the service. This is evidenced by the fact that even in the abbreviated “fear for the sake of death” rite of Baptism, where such essential parts of the rite as the prohibition of evil spirits and the singing of the Creed, the prayer for the blessing of water must always be preserved. nine0003

The use of Epiphany water during Baptism, as well as any water consecrated at prayer services in general, is not allowed . Only at the Baptism of infants by the laity "for fear of death" can both previously consecrated and plain water be used. Baptism should be performed in water at room temperature, and in the winter season - in heated water. The water must be clean, free of impurities and odorless. The font or, in extreme cases, another vessel used to perform the Sacrament, subsequently used for other purposes is strictly prohibited. After Baptism, the water from the font should be poured into a dry well on the territory of the temple. In case of his absence - to a clean, untroubled place - under a tree, under a temple, or into a river. It is unacceptable to store water for Baptism in the font for several days. nine0003

If a baby is being baptized, then the font in which Baptism will be performed is placed in the center of the baptismal room. On the eastern side of the font, three candles are lit on a special holder. On the left side of the font is a lectern, on which they put the Cross, the Gospel and the baptismal box. For the Baptism of adults, pools (baptisteries) are made in the temples, which allows the Sacrament to be performed by a complete threefold immersion of the person being baptized. A priest stands in front of the font, immediately behind him are godparents holding a baby in their arms. If the person being baptized is an adult, his successors stand behind him. The recipients are given candles in their hands. nine0003

The first exclamation of the rite of Baptism: "Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, now and forever and forever and ever" - currently begins only three most important types of worship - the Sacrament of Baptism, the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Marriage. Next, the priest pronounces the Great Litany with petitions added to it for the blessing of water.

At the end of all the prayers for the consecration of water, the priest marks (baptizes) the water three times, plunging his fingers into the water, and, blowing on the nu (her), says:

“Let all the opposing forces be crushed under the banner of the image of Your Cross” ( thrice ).

This completes the blessing of the water.

Priest's Preparatory Prayer

The Preparatory Prayer is part of the rite of consecrating water. By and large, this is the priest's prayer for himself. Prayer to be worthy of your great mission. Likeness to Christ in word, in life, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity (1 Tim. 4:12) should be everyday, and especially evident during the hours of divine services. The Church teaches that the grace given in the Sacrament of Baptism in no way depends on the moral qualities of the clergyman who performs it. But to all of us the Lord Jesus Christ said: Therefore, be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect (Matt. 5; 48) and, of course, this primarily refers to a clergyman performing divine services. Therefore, the personal spiritual state of the priest, not having any significance for the effectiveness of the Sacrament, is very important for the salvation of both himself and his spiritual children and the entire flock as a whole.

Consecration of the oil

The vessel for the consecrated oil and the tassel must be signed: "Holy Oil", and the vessel and tassel for the Holy Chrism, stored there, must differ in appearance or also have the inscription: "Holy Chrism". It is unacceptable to mix Holy Myrrh and oil during anointing. nine0003

The consecration of oil is similar to the consecration of water. First, demonic forces are expelled by blowing three times into the vessel with oil and three times overshadowing it with the sign of the cross. Then follows the recollection of the significance of oil in the history of salvation and thanksgiving to God for this gift of healing, peace, spiritual strength and life:

the weapon of truth, the renewal of the soul and body, to drive away every devilish action, to change all evils, anointed by faith or eating from it in Your glory, and Your Only Begotten Son, and the Most Holy, and Good, and Your Life-giving Spirit, now and forever, and in forever and ever ".

The priest “anoints” the water in the font or baptistery with consecrated oil: The priest, singing “Alleluia” three times with people, makes crosses three times with oil in the water .

Oil is also anointed and baptized , his body parts: forehead (forehead), chest, interdorama (back between the shoulder blades), ears, arms and legs. The meaning of such an anointing is to sanctify the thoughts, desires and actions of a person entering into a spiritual covenant with God.

Oil, unlike the water used in the Sacrament of Baptism, can be consecrated in advance for future use. nine0003

Baptism

After anointing the person to be baptized with the “Oil of Joy”, the priest baptizes him in the font by immersing him in water three times while saying the baptismal prayer .

And when the whole body is anointed, the priest baptizes it, right (that is, straight) holding it and seeing (looking) to the east, saying:

…”

(immerses the person being baptized into the water). nine0003

And, raising out of the water, says : "Amen."

Immersing for the second time, he says:

“And the Son…”.

And, raising from the font : "Amen."

Immersing for the third time, he says:

“And the Holy Spirit…”.

And, raising from the font : "Amen."

And further: “Now and forever and forever and ever. Amen".

After the baptized person comes out of the water, he must turn to face the altar. At this moment, the 31st psalm is sung three times, expressing the joy of cleansing from sins and entering Christ's Church:

“Blessed are they who have left iniquity, and who have covered themselves with sin. Blessed is the man, the Lord will not impute sin to him, below there is flattery in his mouth ... ".

Dressing the newly baptized in white clothes

Just as at the beginning of the rite of pronouncement the person being baptized was released from the clothes, so after the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism the new member of Christ's Church is dressed in white clothes: a baptismal shirt of the appropriate size.

The dressing of the baptized in white clothes, which the Fathers of the Church call "the shining robe, the royal robe, the incorruptible robe", is a sign of the restoration of his true nature, lost by all mankind by the fall of the forefathers:

And dressing him in a robe, the priest says : “The servant of God (the servant of God, name ) is dressed in a robe of truth, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, amen.”

At this moment the troparion is sung: “Give me a robe of light, clothe yourself with light like a robe, Christ our God, Most Merciful.” After the baptized person is wearing white clothes, according to the ancient tradition of the Russian Orthodox Church, a pectoral cross is put on his neck . The priest can at the same time pronounce the words of the Savior: Whoso desires to follow Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me (Mark 8:34). Or other words: “Assigned to the servant of God (servant of God, name ) The Cross is the guardian of the entire universe, the Cross is the strength of kings and peoples, the Cross is the affirmation of believers, the Cross is the glory of the Angels and the defeat of demons.

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