There are no days when it is strictly forbidden to baptize a child. But those parents who want to conduct the sacrament according to Orthodox canons adhere to certain rules. Since ancient times, the tradition has been widespread to carry out baptism on the eighth or fortieth day from the birth of the baby. On the eighth day of a child's life, the priest conducts an important rite of naming. By the name received on this day, the Lord knows the person and accepts his prayers.

But many still do not choose this date for baptism because of the strict rule - the mother of the child cannot be present at the ceremony until the fortieth day from the birth of the child. Until this period passes, his mother is excommunicated from the church for purification, and then a special cleansing ceremony is performed on her, allowing her to visit the temple again. Therefore, the most common date for baptism is the fortieth day of a baby's life.

Attention! Do not forget to find out in advance if another event is planned in the church for that day, because then there will be a lot of people in the church, which will interfere with the sacrament, and the priest may be busy.

Baptism on holidays

Previously, baptism was timed to coincide with church holidays - Easter, Epiphany, Trinity, Christmas, Palm Sunday and others. The sacrament is allowed to be performed on any holiday, but you need to understand that a lot of parishioners visit the temple these days. The child may not be comfortable among a large and noisy crowd. And as noted earlier, the priest may not have enough time to conduct the rite of baptism. Therefore, if you still decide to conduct the sacrament during the holidays, you must visit the church in advance and agree with the priest.

What else do you need to know when choosing a date?

We have compiled a list of what else you should pay attention to when choosing a date for baptism:

  1. You need to know that according to church rules, the mother of the child and the godmother cannot come to church during critical days. Therefore, it is necessary to check in advance with your cycle and, if necessary, move the date of baptism.
  2. If you are worried about the health of your baby, you can find out the weather for the coming week and choose the warmest day. Some postpone baptism until summer to make sure their child does not get sick after bathing.
  3. There are also parents who refuse to baptize a baby in infancy at all. There is nothing catastrophic about this! Remember, a child can be baptized at any age. Some specifically time the sacrament to coincide with the child's birthday, for example, the completion of one year.
  4. Often a day off is chosen for the baptism so that as many relatives as possible can come. By the way, an unlimited number of people can attend the ceremony, it is only important that they are relatives and friends.

Particular attention should be paid to the choice of godparents, who are entrusted with the most important mission - to educate the godchild in the faith.

How to carry out a baptism at home?

In some cases, such as illness of a child or parent, or living in a remote rural area, a priest can be invited home and baptized there. Also, this method is sometimes used by those who do not want to take a child to the temple in cold weather. But in this case, keep in mind that the priest may not agree to your proposal. In addition, only in the church does the most important part of baptism take place - the presentation of girls to the altar and the introduction of boys into it. So a child can be baptized at home, but only in the temple does this sacrament take on its full meaning.

Advice! After baptism at home, the priest can be invited to stay at the ceremonial table in order to celebrate the christening.

11 folk signs about the baptism of a child

Signs of baptism by Orthodox Christians were passed down from generation to generation. We have selected the most famous of them:

  • Christening clothes should be new, light in color. After all, it is believed that it is in it that the child for the first time appears before God;
  • you need to baptize the child early, because after the ceremony he has his own guardian angel, who from now on will protect the baby;
  • for the same reason, you should not show the baby to a large number of people before the sacrament. After all, the child is absolutely defenseless in front of everything;
  • Saturday is considered the most successful day for baptism among the people;
  • pork should not be served on the festive table after christening, it is best if it is rooster or chicken meat.
  • godfather and godfather should not be in a romantic relationship, much less be husband and wife. It is best if they are relatives;
  • the godparent should give the child a cross for the sacrament, and it is better if the cross is not made of gold;
  • it’s good if a wedding takes place in the church before or after baptism. And vice versa, it is bad if it is the funeral of the deceased;
  • you should not invite a woman who has had an abortion to become a godmother;
  • kryzhma (a special towel for the ceremony) should be given by the godmother. It must be kept for life without erasing;
  • if you are buying a cross or other things needed for a ceremony in a church, do not take the change under any circumstances, or leave it in the donation box.

Relying on church rules when choosing a day of baptism or choosing a date convenient for the family and the child is your decision! The main thing to remember is that baptism is a sacred sacrament that will largely determine the future fate of your baby. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare for it and take it seriously!

The rite of baptism of a child - video

You have decided to baptize your child, but don't know where to start. How to do it? What is needed for this? Priest Sergiy Zvonarev, an employee of the Department for External Church Relations of the Moscow Patriarchate, a cleric of the Church of the Life-Giving Trinity in Khoroshevo, will help to figure it out.

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Now almost all parents, regardless of whether they live according to church canons or not, are trying to baptize their children. Father Sergius, what do you think about this?

Of course, the desire to baptize a baby in any case is only welcome. However, parents would like to wish a more responsible attitude to the sacrament. Baptism is not a tribute to fashion or tradition, but the spiritual birth of a person for a mysterious life with God, which occurs only once. In the sacrament of Baptism, a person is given the grace of the Holy Spirit, which helps him grow spiritually, strengthen himself in love for God and neighbor. By accepting holy Baptism, a person becomes a full member of the Church and can participate in other sacraments.

Faith is an essential condition for receiving the sacrament of Baptism. Of course, it is pointless to demand faith from an infant. Baptism of children occurs according to the faith of their parents, as well as godparents.

At what age is it best to baptize a child?

There are no strict requirements: baptize the child when you see fit. However, given the spiritual importance of this sacrament, one should not particularly delay either - usually children are baptized in the first year of life.

Is it possible to baptize a child if his parents are unbaptized, of a different faith or baptized in non-Orthodox (for example, Catholics, Armenians or Baptists)?

It is possible and necessary. The religion of the parents in this case is not a determining factor.

Are there rules about baptizing more than one person at the same time? Can children and parents, brothers and sisters be baptized together?

Nothing prevents the simultaneous baptism of several people: in our time, 20-30 people are often baptized at the same time. It is possible to be baptized together with relatives. I think that it is a great spiritual joy when close people receive Holy Baptism together.

Most couples who want to baptize their baby are not married in a church. Can they baptize their child?

Calling on Orthodox people to enter into a church marriage, the Church, at the same time, recognizes the marriage registered in the registry office as legal. If the child's parents are not married, this does not prevent him from being baptized.

Father Sergiy, you know that, unfortunately, there are many single-parent families and children born out of wedlock. What to do in such cases?

The presence in the family of only one of the parents is not an obstacle to the baptism of the child, as well as other conditions of his birth.

The question of choosing a name is perhaps one of the most exciting. Despite the fact that, in principle, a child can be baptized with any name, it is customary in the Russian Orthodox Church to baptize children with the name of one of the saints, who is mentioned in the Saints (a list of saints' names). If the name given at birth is not in the Saints, then, as a rule, the consonant name of one of God's saints is given (for example, Karina - Catherine, Inga - Inna, Robert - Rodion), or the name of a saint whose memory falls on the date the birth of a child (for example, January 14 - Basil the Great, October 8 - St. Sergius of Radonezh, July 24 - Equal-to-the-Apostles Princess Olga). With this name, a person is baptized, can participate in the sacraments. This name is written in commemoration notes.

How to choose a church where a child will be baptized and is it possible to baptize a child at home?

The choice of the temple where the baptism will take place is more important for the parents than for the baby himself. If you are parishioners of a particular church, then it is better to baptize there.

Baptisms at home, as a rule, are performed only under some special circumstances that prevent people from coming to the temple, for example, in the event of a serious illness of a child.

What days do baptisms take place? Is it possible to baptize a child in fasting?

Baptism can be performed absolutely on any day - Lenten, ordinary or festive. But each church has its own schedule, so when choosing a day for christening, you need to consult with the priest.

Who can be invited to be godparents? What responsibilities does this place on them?

Orthodox Christians who are not married to each other, and also do not plan a further marriage, can become godparents, since godfathers are spiritually related to each other.

The role of godparents is great. It is they who promise to raise the child in the faith. The participation of godparents in the spiritual upbringing of children should be real, not nominal. Today there are all possibilities for this. Priests are always ready to discuss issues of spiritual education of children, in church shops there is religious children's literature that tells about God, faith, the Church.

In order to teach godchildren the basics of faith, godparents themselves must understand and be able to explain what and in whom they believe.

A godfather can be either a distant or close relative of the person being baptized - an uncle or aunt, brother or sister, grandmother or grandfather, or just a good friend of the child's parents. When choosing a godfather, of course, you need to be guided by how good a spiritual educator and adviser he can become for your child.

What is needed for baptism? How should one prepare for it?

In those churches where it is customary to hold catechumens (that is, teaching) conversations, godparents need to visit them in advance. For the baptism of an infant, you need to have a baptismal shirt, a pectoral cross, a towel, and a few candles. All this can be prepared in advance by yourself, or purchased at a church shop. According to tradition, godparents give the baby a cross and an icon of his heavenly patron. Before the baptism of a child, it is advisable for Orthodox Christians to confess and take communion, because on the day of baptism, for the first time, their baby will also take communion with them.

Who can be present in the church at the time of baptism?

Everyone who is not indifferent to this spiritual event in the life of the family, and who prayerfully wants to share the joy of the Holy Sacrament, can be present.

How should baptisms be celebrated?

You can set the table, prepare refreshments, invite godparents, relatives to celebrate this event. But remember that the day of christening should not be marred by abuse. It must be sanctified by love and spiritual joy.

I talked with Father Sergius: Alexandra Borisova.

The question of when it is better to baptize a child in 2018 is rather rhetorical, since there are no religious restrictions on age or dates. It is more important to know the meaning of the sacrament itself, as well as the procedure for conducting it, so that the decision of the parents is conscious. Then the rite will certainly bring grace to the child.

  • 1 Recommendations for choosing a date for baptism in 2018
    • 1.1 When is the best time to baptize a baby?
  • 2 The most favorable time for the baptism of the baby
    • 2.1 Tips for parents
  • 3 Important nuances of baptism - we do everything right!
  • 4 Festive dinner after baptism - how to organize and what should be done?
  • 5 Preparing the baby for baptism: how to dress him correctly and what to wear?
    • 5.1 What kind of clothes should be given preference?
    • 5.2 How to put on a baptismal outfit for a child correctly?

You can baptize a child at any age. At the same time, it must be remembered that until the age of seven, the decision-making is the responsibility of the parents, but from the age of seven to fourteen, children must also give consent to the ceremony. Teenagers over the age of fourteen go to baptism only at their own request, guided by their personal worldview.

Orthodoxy has no prohibitions on the sacrament of baptism even during periods of major fasts; it does not provide for exact dates. The only thing to consider: perhaps the temple in which the ceremony is planned to be performed only on certain days of the week, most often every Saturday. It is also worth remembering that on major holidays, the priest may not physically have time for the sacrament. On such days, services are always held, confessions are held, many people come to the temple, so a small child is unlikely to feel comfortable in such conditions.

When is the best time to baptize a baby?


As an advice when choosing the date of the ceremony, we can suggest paying attention to the old Slavic customs. It has long been customary to carry out baptism on the eighth, and more often on the fortieth day from the date of birth of the child. These dates are of particular importance: on the eighth day, the baby was always named, and the number "forty" is special in Orthodoxy. It is believed that only after 40 days the mother can enter the temple, since she has already undergone a natural purification after the birth of the child, and the postpartum discharge has completely stopped.

Despite the absence of canons limiting the time of the sacrament, it is worth remembering that on the days of fasting, the holiday itself will have to be met with the corresponding lenten menu. His list can be clarified with the priest, or you can use the help of the all-knowing Internet. But, if suddenly a baby is born sick and weak, it is advisable to carry out the ceremony as soon as possible in order to try to help him with all his might. In such a situation, it is advisable to christen the baby immediately after birth, inviting a priest to the hospital. In the future, the sacrament can easily be repeated within the walls of the temple, when the crumb gets stronger.

The most favorable time for the baptism of the baby

As for the best time for baptism these days, it is considered more convenient and favorable to perform the ceremony in the first week after Easter. In 2018, they will meet her on April 8th. Most people seek to wait out Great Lent and christen their babies under Krasnaya Gorka. In 2018, this holiday falls on the fifteenth of April, and therefore most temples will hold the ceremony on the sixteenth.

The best dates of 2018 for the baptism of children are the following:

  • January - 9, 11, 12, 20.
  • February - 7, 9, 21, 27.
  • March - the sacrament is not recommended.
  • April - 4, 11, 18, 22, 28.
  • May - 1, 2, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 24.
  • June - 3, 8, 12, 18, 22, 24, 28.
  • July - 4, 7, 21, 29.
  • August - 2, 4, 16, 22, 26, 28.
  • September - 14, 16, 28.
  • October - 3, 9, 18.
  • November - 2, 8, 12, 14, 16, 18.
  • December - 24, 27.

When to baptize a child in 2018, only parents decide. The Church does not set strict dates for the sacrament. It is only important to decide in advance on the temple, to find out there about the possible specific days of the week for baptism. It may also happen that on the date chosen by the parents in God's house, a funeral, wedding, or baptism of another person is planned. Therefore, it is imperative to coordinate the day with the priest. If necessary, he will definitely tell you how to properly prepare for the ceremony, what is necessary for him.

Tips for parents


Before baptism, it is important to remember some of the nuances:

  • It is recommended to choose small temples for the ceremony, in which there will not be many people, then the baby will become less worried.
  • It is not necessary to arrange huge feasts after baptism. This is a sacrament, and not a reason to gather all relatives and friends at a common table, or arrange drinking alcohol.
  • If the baby cries during the ceremony, then there is no need to worry, this prophesies happiness and good health to him.
  • It is recommended to baptize the child after the wedding procedure, but not after the funeral of the deceased.
  • A cross made of silver, a diaper and an undershirt for the crumbs should be purchased by the godmother.
  • For the sacrament, a donation must be made to the temple, although most houses of God do not charge a fixed fee for the rite.
  • Godparents for a child must be chosen with special responsibility, since a man and a woman will continue to be responsible for the spiritual development of the crumbs.
  • Unbaptized relatives, as well as people of other faiths, cannot attend the sacrament.
  • You can not force the child to the ceremony, as this choice is made independently.
  • The shirt in which the child was baptized is recommended to be worn on him during sleep.

Thus, in 2018, the baby can be baptized on any convenient day. The main thing is to talk with the priest in advance in order to avoid unforeseen situations. A properly performed ceremony will contribute to the happiness of the child and his longevity.

Important nuances of baptism - we do everything right!


When choosing a date for the baptism of a baby in 2018, it is best to focus on the numbers that fall on Thursday. Also, the feast of Baptism is considered especially favorable dates for such a great sacrament. There is an opinion that it is impossible to organize baptism during fasting, but in reality everything happens differently.

Since during this ceremony the little man is introduced to the church, its ministers do not set restrictions in this matter. The only reason why parents may be denied baptism on holidays is that the church is too busy with numerous services.

An especially important point! The godmother during the rite of baptism must hold a teaspoon in her bosom. Further, the same spoon in turn should gradually stay with each of the baby's relatives (on which day it does not matter). The mother takes her first, then the father, and only then comes the turn of the grandparents. As soon as the child grows up a little, then this particular spoon should be used to feed him. Such a ritual will help him eat well, develop quickly, be happy and healthy.

By observing all the rules of the rite of baptism, it will be possible to endow your precious child with strong guardian angels.

Festive dinner after baptism - how to organize and what should be done?


Almost all parents, after the rite of baptism, organize a festive table, at which the closest people gather.

In ancient times, special porridge - wheat or buckwheat - had to be served at such a celebration. The cereal used for its preparation was left in advance in milk, and then it was boiled in it with the addition of a small amount of cream. The so-called baptismal porridge was supplemented with jam and sugar, and halves of boiled eggs, which were considered a symbol of fertility, were laid out as decoration.

In some areas, in such unsweetened porridge, depending on the sex of the child, a rooster or chicken was baked. For the father of a baptized baby, their own special porridge was also prepared, the integral ingredients of which were horseradish and salt in large quantities. It was believed that such a dish helped a man feel the torment that his wife felt during the bearing and birth of a baby.

In order for the life of the baby to develop only in the best possible way, during the baptism itself and the subsequent festive meal, the following important points should be observed:

  • There should be a lot of treats on the festive table. At the same time, too large portions of food should not be placed on guests' plates. If leftovers remain in the plates after dinner, this will bring failure in the future life of the child.
  • It is strictly forbidden to use pancakes to treat guests. You should refuse such a dish and replace it with a pie stuffed with rooster or chicken meat.
  • For a dinner in honor of the baptism of a child, pork treats are not prepared. For festive dishes, it is better to use poultry, beef and fish.
  • If guests come to the celebration with a gift in the form of money, then on the day of christening, you should definitely count them. Thus, in the later life of the children there will be no material problems.
  • Drinking at the festive table is strictly prohibited. This is especially true for the godparents of the child. If this rule is neglected, then it is believed that a child in adulthood can become a drunkard.
  • At the festive table (and throughout the day of christening) there should be no quarrels and disputes. All this will violate the atmosphere of the ceremony, negatively affecting the future fate of the crumbs.

All of these rules are quite simple, so parents should follow them when organizing a festive dinner.

We prepare the baby for baptism: how to dress him correctly and what to wear?


One of the topical issues in the process of organizing a christening is the selection of an outfit for the child himself. You should find a clothing option that will not only correspond to such an important celebration, but also give the baby a feeling of comfort and coziness.

When choosing an attire for a baptismal ceremony, the following important nuances should be taken into account:

  • During the sacrament of baptism, the priest cuts off a small lock of hair from the head of the child. That is why it is worth putting on a baby hat, which is quickly and easily removed.
  • If there is a baptism, which involves a complete immersion in sacred water, then the child will need to be completely undressed. And after carrying out such a procedure - dress as quickly as possible so that he does not freeze and does not catch a cold. That is why the chosen set of clothes should have comfortable fasteners and, preferably, be separate (blouse and pants).
  • Confirmation is another integral part of any rite of baptism. During such a procedure, the priest performs lubrication of the eyes, ears, nose, forehead, chest and limbs of the crumbs with the world. That is why parents do not need to wrap up the baby too much. It will be very easy to wash off the myrrh field of baptism - an ordinary sponge or special wet wipes for newborns are suitable for these purposes.

Given all these features of the rite of baptism, parents should choose the appropriate set of clothes.

What kind of clothes should be preferred?

The most ideal solution for christening will be a loose outfit that does not require extra effort and time to dress. It can be a vest, supplemented with ties, a hat, panties that do not have socks. But from the usual in the daily wardrobe overalls with buttons should be abandoned. Putting them on will take a lot of time, moreover, the baby can be naughty and cry, which will further aggravate the situation. If it seems to parents that the selected clothes are not warm enough, then you can additionally wrap the baby in a blanket or diaper.

Modern manufacturers of children's clothing offer special outfits for the rite of baptism, depending on the gender of the child. So, for a boy, the set will consist of a long dress or an undershirt, a bonnet, an embroidered diaper, and booties. In the christening set for tiny princesses, parents will be able to find booties, an elegant dress, a bonnet and a diaper, made in the same style and color. Thanks to a well-thought-out cut, such clothes will allow you to carry out baptism without too much fuss and hassle.

How to put on a baptismal outfit for a child correctly?

Prepares the baby for the rite of baptism stands in the walls of the house. Over the selected set, you can put on a warm jacket, hat and outerwear, which will be removed only in the temple before the procedure itself. If it turned out to be too cold in the church, then you can not get rid of the blouse and other warm things.

Do not be too fussy and rush when dressing your child after a dive. The baby is still very small and such a procedure can cause hypothermia. The priest always gives parents time for all the necessary manipulations of dressing and wrapping up.

The baptism of a baby is a special sacrament that requires careful preparation. Some rules should be followed when planning a date and determining godparents for a newborn.

Long before a child plans to be born, parents begin to think that he will need to be baptized. Since ancient times, it was believed that only by christening the baby, he acquires his name and joins the people of God, becoming closer to the Lord himself. The baptismal ceremony frees the little person from sins, because all children are born in sin.

In any case, this is a matter that requires compliance with many rules.

Why are children baptized?

Passing the rite of baptism, the child becomes higher on a spiritual level, he joins the church and acquires a name before the Lord.

  • Baptism is a special solemn sacrament. During the christening of a small child, a real miracle happens. The Church insistently asserts that at this moment the real gates to Heaven open. Baptism washes away sins from a person, making him clean before the Lord.
  • If you think about it, this is a way to warn your baby in the future from evil, problems and misfortunes.
  • The church strongly believes that religion is not chosen “like clothes”, so parents should take care of the rite of baptism in advance, choose godparents and engage in spiritual education of the child “from the cradle”.
  • Baptized people are recognized by the church and you can light candles and read prayers for them. This is another reason for the timely baptism of the child in the church.

Church calendar: when to baptize a newborn?

  • The most optimal time for baptism is considered to be the days when a woman's postpartum blood discharge ends, that is, after forty days.
  • After the expiration of this period, you need to carefully prepare for the ceremony and calculate the date.
  • Many choose certain days on which they honor the Holy Apostles and give the baby their names.


when to baptize a newborn?

Since ancient times, it was believed that baptism can be performed already on the eighth day from birth, provided that the umbilical wound is completely healed.

There are also situations when parents do not wait for forty days to be baptized. The reason for this is not the good health of the baby, his ability to die from illness, difficult and traumatic childbirth. In situations where it is impossible to visit the church, a clergyman is invited to the hospital and performs the ceremony. In extreme cases, the mother herself reads a prayer and sprinkles the child with holy water.

After a hospital baptism, it is imperative to re-baptize in the temple.

  • According to the rules, the sacrament is held on the fortieth day after the birth of the baby, and this is no coincidence.
  • This is the time that should put the mother of the child and the newborn in order.
  • It is believed that it is not worth postponing the date of baptism for a long time, and if one of the relatives fell ill or could not come, the church does not accept this.
  • If fasting falls on the date of baptism, that is, on the fortieth day, this does not become an obstacle and there are no prohibitions on church holidays.
  • Exceptions can only be large church holidays, in such cases the church may not hold a baptism due to the busyness of the clergy.

Preparing for the baptism of a child - the choice of godparents, the rules and duties of godparents

The christening of a child has always been considered a special holiday in the life of every family. This is the purification of the soul and body at the same time. Due to the lack of a child’s opportunity to bow before God, this duty is performed for him by his godparents. It is for this reason that godparents should be chosen carefully, because they will become the spiritual parents of the baby until the end of his days.

Godparents for a child must be Orthodox people and should not have any intimate relationship with each other.



preparation for the baptism of a child
  • The baptism of the baby should, according to the rules, be carried out only within the walls of the church. During baptism, both parents read the “creed” prayer, which serves as their proof of the Orthodox faith and observance of the duties of godparents. In their prayer, both parents completely renounce Satan and promise to take full part in the spiritual Christian upbringing of their child.
  • It must be remembered that Christianity is a voluntary and conscious choice. So with the choice of godparents, they should not give up their fate and fully devote their strength to this whole process.
  • According to tradition, it is believed that if a girl is baptized, she must have a godmother, and a boy - a godfather. The role of the godfather can be asked to play the priest himself.
  • Godparents should recite a prayer for their godchild every holiday and at bedtime. It is customary to ask God for forgiveness and blessings every time, wish the child good health and give thanks for every day of life.
  • It is also the duty of the godparents to acquaint the child with the Bible and give him communion.
  • Godparents should take on the burden of "motherhood" and facilitate the work of the mother, giving her rest.


God-parents

Ideally, before baptism, both parents should come to church for confession in order to ask God for forgiveness for all sins committed and take communion. Before baptism, godparents need to spend the day in peace, prayer and refrain from any intimate relationship with their spouses. You should also limit yourself in food.

Before baptism, the godmother must prepare all the necessary clothes for baptism:

  • kryzhmu - a special diaper
  • shirt
  • cap (for girls)

The godfather traditionally acquires a cross. The cross must be silver, as this metal is considered pure and is able to attract positive energy. Gold does not welcome the church, because this metal is not from God.

The clothes in which the baby is baptized and the coat should not be washed after baptism. In those moments when the child gets sick, he should be covered with a blanket. It is believed that she is able to heal the baby and give him relief. The mother must keep all the clothes and hand them over to her child for storage already in adulthood.

How to dress for christening in church: dress code rules

The church requires compliance with a special "dress code". Men are advised not to wear too bright and provocative clothes. It is best to wear a long sleeve shirt and trousers. It will be solemn and proper. It is better not to wear a short sleeve, some clergy react negatively to modern T-shirts. Another important point for men is to completely hide all tattoos on the body. They may have a negative meaning and therefore be unacceptable in the church.



Women must follow a more serious dress code:

  • The head of a woman must be covered with a scarf and, in no case, with any headdress.
  • A woman should not be wearing trousers, she should definitely wear a skirt or dress that will cover her legs at least to the knees.
  • Women's shoulders should also be covered, and the neckline should not reveal the chest to everyone.
  • Every detail of the godmother's clothes should not cause indignation and condemnation. A woman should make sure that her wardrobe is not defiant: without heels, bright patterns, skulls, chains and spikes. The church is a noble place.

Every godfather must have a pectoral cross on his chest.

What are the rules for baptism?

  • The Orthodox Church says that during the rite of baptism, in no case should non-Orthodox people and people of other religions be present. Therefore, before christening, carefully check with all your loved ones about their details.
  • The church is a pure noble place. You should go to church with a pure soul and heart. Therefore, if you have conflicts in your family, they should be corrected and communication should be established.
  • After the rite of baptism, parents must set the table for their godparents to celebrate the event. It is customary to give gifts to a child in order to leave as many memories of this bright day as possible.
  • Baptism can be carried out in person, or you can combine several together. The rite does not lose strength and acquires significance in equal strength for everyone.
  • Hair cut at the time of baptism should be kept by the godfather.


church baptism rules

Can a child be baptized under a different name?

Modern fashion dictates its own conditions, and more and more often parents give their children unusual names: Viola, Aliana, Milan and so on. What to do in those cases when the church does not recognize the name? In such a situation, the priest offers the child another Orthodox name: either similar to what the child has, or a name dedicated to the Holy Apostle.

In such situations, the child has two names, but only what the church has given gains strength. In prayers and petitions to God, it is the church name of the child that should be mentioned.

Is it possible to baptize a child if the mother is not baptized?

The church says that unbaptized people do not have the right to be within its walls. That is why it is forbidden for unbaptized parents to be during baptism. This whole situation is fundamentally wrong, and before baptizing her child, the mother must herself be baptized. Only then will her prayers gain strength and meaning.

Some churches also do not consider it right for the mother to be near the child during baptism, even baptized. After all, all duties fall on the godmother - and here she is the main one. All this can be understood from the point of view that a child cannot have two mothers at the same time. In such cases, the mother is outside the temple. Some churches allow mothers who do not have bleeding to be present in the temple and observe the ceremony from a distance.



rite of baptism

Can a pregnant woman be a godmother and baptize a child?

The Church categorically forbids “not clean” women, that is, those who currently have postpartum discharge or menstruation, to be within its walls. But it is loyal and even favorable to pregnant women who decide to come to the temple. Therefore, a pregnant woman may well be a godmother.

However, you should think about the fact that the rite is quite complicated and requires endurance. Sometimes you should stand in a stuffy room for a long time and hold the child in your arms. Whether a pregnant woman will be able to withstand this process, and whether she can afford it, is another question.

Can a child be baptized without godparents?

Some life situations force parents to make difficult decisions about the choice of godparents. It often happens that there are simply no suitable people. In such cases, the church itself should come to the rescue and offer its services. The fact is that any priest can become a godparent to a child.

The rules of baptism state that a child must have at least one godparent who will pray for him.

Still, it is advisable to prepare in advance in order to find suitable people for baptism. Age and social status should never matter, only the desire to share the fate of a parent and the Orthodox faith should move people.

Are children baptized on fasting and Easter?

As mentioned earlier, fasting and church holidays do not become an obstacle to the ceremony. The only exception is the situation when the clergyman performing the ceremony is too busy on the occasion of Easter or any other date. You should always clarify with the priest in advance his capabilities and plans, and only then prepare for the event.
It is best to choose the day before Easter.



christening at easter

Can a child be baptized on a leap year?

Church rules have nothing against a leap year for baptism. Baptism is a ceremony that brings the soul of a child closer to God, and therefore, some worldly conventions should not matter. In no case should you postpone baptism on the occasion of a leap year; the child should be introduced to the Lord as early as possible.

What day of the week are children baptized?

As a rule, baptism can be carried out on any day of the week - you just have to agree with the priest. Most often, churches gather children during the first half of the week to be baptized in the second half, but they are always ready to make exceptions and hold a private ceremony.

Baptism is most often held on Saturday, as Sunday is overloaded with church services.



baptism in church

The rite of baptism, as a rule, is a long process that requires careful preparation and full dedication. First, the ceremony takes place in a separate room, where the godparents read prayers, and the child is smeared with myrrh and dipped in holy water. As a rule, this action lasts from forty minutes to an hour. The most important thing happens in this room - the child is given a name and a cross is put on it.

How is the baptism of a child?

After the ceremony, held in a separate room, the child is allowed to enter the temple and is solemnly brought into the church. The priest brings the baby to important icons and reads prayers. The priest carries the children-boys through the altar; girls are not allowed to be there. Native mothers are present in the temple and read maternal prayers. It takes another forty minutes.



Baptism of a child: rules for godparents in the church

During baptism, godparents should carefully listen to the priest. He will read those prayers that should be obligatory when a child acquires the Orthodox faith. They are read in the old language, so the exact repetition of some words is not excluded. You shouldn't get lost here. You need not to panic and try to complete the task as best as possible.

During prayer, at the request of the priest, it is customary to spit on the wall three times and blow. Here you should not overdo it and do everything symbolically. Each godparent should help each other if the child does not behave calmly. Baptism is a holiday that should not be overshadowed by a bad state of mind. According to the rules, if a girl is baptized, her godfather holds her, and if a boy, the godmother.



rules for godparents

Who cannot be a godfather to a child?

There are several rules that should be observed when choosing godparents:

  • godparents should not be intimate with each other
  • godmother should not have periods during baptism
  • godparents cannot be people of other faiths
  • godparents cannot be the parents themselves

That's all the requirements. You can baptize several times in your life and rebaptize the children of your loved ones (that is, I will be the godfather of the child of the parents who are the godparents of my child) is also not prohibited.

Who should buy a cross for a child's baptism and which one?

As mentioned earlier, the godfather is obliged to buy a cross for a newborn - this is his direct responsibility. The cross must be consecrated, so prefer to purchase this attribute right in the church. If you have already purchased this item in a jewelry store, try to dedicate it in the church in advance.

The cross should be the most common, without unnecessary symbols and meanings. It must have a crucifix and the inscription "Save and Save."



God-parents

Rules for the baptism of a girl in the Orthodox Church

The baptism of a newborn does not differ much depending on his gender and still requires some nuances:

  • The girl's clothes must necessarily have a cap - a headdress that will cover her head, as for any woman.
  • It is best to give preference to a long shirt and not dress the girl in a suit.
  • During the removal of the cap, you should cover the girl's head with kryzhma.
  • The girl is not carried through the altar in the temple.


Rules for the baptism of a boy in the Orthodox Church

  • A headdress for boys does not have such a strong meaning as for girls and therefore you can not keep it on your head.
  • The father brings the boy not only to the icons, but also carries him through the altar, leaving this sacrament only for the male sex.
  • The priest reads prayers, starting with male names.


What is given for the baptism of a child?

Christening is an important date, and therefore it is customary to give many pleasant and useful gifts on this day. Most often, these are clothes for the child, toys or sums of money for which parents themselves decide what to buy.
It is important not to come to the festival empty-handed. It will be most pleasant to receive important things, for example, walkers or educational games.

Not infrequently, one of the godparents gives the child a silver spoon. Most often this is the godmother.

How much does a baptism in a church cost?

The cost of baptism depends only on the church and your generosity. Rarely do churches assign any specific amount and most often simply ask for a voluntary contribution to the development of the church. However, depending on the size and importance of the temple, the amount can range from $10 to $80. This amount includes a ceremony, sometimes paraphernalia, a certificate and an ordered service in honor of the baby.

The godfather must pay for the baptism ceremony - this is his main duty and a gift for baptism to his child.

Video: “The Sacrament of Baptism. Rules"

The sacrament of baptism causes reverent awe in most people. Even not deeply believing parents necessarily baptize the baby so that the child is under God's protection.

The rite of baptism is a ritual that requires little preparation. It is important to know when to baptize a newborn, what to prepare for going to church, who to take as godparents (named parents). Learn more about the traditional Christian rite.

Most parents try to protect the tiny little man early, they conduct the sacrament of baptism until the baby is 1 year old. Most often, the ceremony is performed on the 40th day after the birth of the child. Sometimes the sacrament takes place later, if the baby is sick, the weather is so windy and cold that the baby can easily catch a cold.

Take note:

  • it is not worth postponing the ceremony for a long time: newborn children up to a year old behave calmly during the sacrament, most of them sleep;
  • after a year and a half, the child often spins, is naughty, is afraid of incomprehensible smells, sounds, many strangers, the actions of a priest;
  • with such behavior, the special atmosphere inherent in the traditional rite disappears: all efforts are aimed at calming the crying baby;
  • whims, screams, exhortations of parents often wake up other children if the ceremony takes place for several couples;
  • consider an important point, ensure maximum peace of mind during the ritual.

In some cases, the priest does not recommend postponing baptism. Perform the traditional ceremony as soon as possible if the baby is restless, weak, born prematurely. In case of a serious illness, priests also advise to baptize the baby early.

Baptism of a child: what you need to know? Helpful Hints:

  • any day is suitable for the ceremony. Often young parents choose Saturday and Sunday, when many close people and friends can come to share the joy;
  • on major church holidays, it is not very convenient to hold christenings: a lot of people gather in the temple, the child may burst into tears due to stuffiness, a large crowd of strangers. On such days, the priest will not be able to devote enough time to parents and the baby;
  • if you plan a date in advance, pay attention to a delicate nuance: mommy can be present in the temple when she does not have critical days at that moment. Choose the date of the christening taking into account an important factor.

Where to baptize a newborn

The bulk of the rites of baptism of the child takes place in the church. Sometimes circumstances interfere with visiting the temple: the child quickly catches a cold in crowded places, the baby gets sick, gets very worried, cries at the sight of strangers. What to do?

Talk to the priest, whom you respect, explain the situation. The priest will take the accessories for the ceremony with him, will baptize the baby at home. Parents will need to prepare attributes for the ceremony.

Advice! In small settlements there is often one or two churches, the choice of where to baptize a child is practically absent. If you live in a big city, don't be lazy, talk to your friends, ask for advice on choosing a priest. It is important to know that the holy father will approach the sacrament of baptism with soul. Come to the temple in advance, talk with the priest, ask for advice on preparing for the ceremony. Find a person who is completely conducive to you.

Necessary purchases: traditions and rules

What is required for a child to be baptized? Take note:

  • most often the cost of the ceremony, the purchase of special accessories in the church is paid by the godfather. Sometimes the parents and the godfather pay the rite equally. It is impossible to force the named pope to pay in full for the christening if the person is still in a difficult financial situation;
  • the godmother should bring a kryzhma - a special towel for the christening of a child, in which the priest will wrap the crumbs during the ceremony. Kryzhma needs to be consecrated before christening. Often, the named mother buys a teaspoon made of silver (the cutlery is also holy in the church);
  • young parents acquire little things for baptism: crosses for guests, candles, a pectoral cross for crumbs. Many parents choose a gold product, but a church cross on a satin ribbon is quite suitable;
  • at baptism, the child receives a second, church name, based on the date of the ceremony. Parents should buy an icon with the face of a saint (holy) - the patron saint for the baby. Choose an icon in the temple: it will be consecrated there, after the christening, the parents will take the amulet home to protect the newly baptized baby from evil forces.

How much does a child's baptism cost? Specify in advance the cost of accessories for the ceremony: often the amount is impressive.

Which outfit is suitable for adults and kids

  • women are required to wear a light scarf / scarf / thin scarf on their heads. The skirt or dress should cover the knees. Under the ban deep neckline, open shoulders, too bright, defiant colors;
  • men will suit trousers and a shirt of soothing tones. Breeches, shorts in the temple are out of place;
  • a special baptismal set of a beautiful undershirt and a hat, on which a cross is embroidered, will suit the baby. A special set is put on the baby only for the sacrament of baptism, then kept at home, reminding of the purity of the child's soul. If you don't have a christening set, wear nice clothes that are easy to put on and take off.

How to choose named parents

Unfortunately, often parents do not attach much importance to this moment. They are looking for someone who will agree or who is allowed by the rules. Not always godparents are people who are ready to come to the rescue at the first call of their parents, to rejoice for the named son or daughter.

Many choose second parents, based on the wealth of the named mother and father, in the hope of expensive gifts or an invitation to visit abroad. Kind, decent people with below average incomes are unfortunately rarely considered as suitable candidates.

This is why many godparents see their named children only for birthdays, and even then, not for all. Sometimes godparents are remembered only before preparing for the godson's wedding in order to get an expensive gift.

Important! Ideally, the named parents should be congenial people or good friends. If you have such acquaintances or relatives in mind, invite them to christening, entrust them to become a named father or mother. Good godparents are joy in the house. Remember about spiritual communication with the godson, and not just about the material side of the issue. Remember: the financial side tends to change for better or worse, and good relationships often last a lifetime.

Who can be godfather

Entrust the honorable duty:

  • good friends;
  • relatives whom you are glad to see in your house;
  • family aunts and uncles.

Who can't be a godfather

Young parents should be aware that there are limits. Traditions do not allow certain categories of relatives and friends to be invited to this responsible role.

Cannot be godparents:

  • baby's parents;
  • children: the minimum age of the godmother is 13 years old, the godfather is 15 years old;
  • a married couple cannot be invited to become godparents for one baby;
  • mental illness is a reason to refuse the help of a person who, due to pathology, is not able to fully realize the measure of responsibility;
  • people of a different faith. Sometimes the prohibition is violated if the future godfather is a very good, kind person.

How is the ceremony

How is the baptism of a child? The scenario of the ritual is practically the same, regardless of the location of the church (large city or small village). Parents, friends, relatives, future godparents should generally understand how the sacrament is performed so that there is no confusion or awkwardness in some situations.

Basic moments:

  • baptism is scheduled for a certain time, but you need to drive up to the temple in advance: this way you will have time to arrange financial issues, negotiate documents for the baby;
  • an important point is to properly prepare the baby for the ritual. Undress the child, wrap it naked in kryzhma - a special diaper or a beautiful towel larger than the baby;
  • the clergyman first invites the godmother to the church with the boy in his arms, the future goddaughter is carried by a man;
  • further inside the temple are the invited guests, the mother comes last. Sometimes, before reading certain prayers, mommy waits outside;
  • the priest takes the newborn in his arms. At this time, the guests repeat the prayer of renunciation of the devil;
  • the next stage is immersing the crumbs in the font. The action is performed three times. If baptism is carried out in the cold season, the priest can pour some water from the font on the arms and legs of the baby;
  • Chrismation takes place after the water ritual. The newly baptized baby receives a blessing, protection from dark forces. To do this, on the nose, forehead, eyes, lips, ears, arms, legs and chest, the clergyman puts smears in the form of a cross with church liquid;
  • the priest gives the crumbs to the named parents: the woman takes the boy, the man takes the girl. Now you need to wipe, dress the baby.

Find out why your child stutters and how to deal with it.

The sacrament of baptism continues:

  • the baby receives a pectoral cross. One of the named parents holds the baby, the second puts on a consecrated cross;
  • the priest cuts a few locks from the baby's head (in the center). This detail means obedience to God, the new spiritual life of the newly baptized baby;
  • at the end of the rite, the priest with the baby in his arms goes around the font three times. The priest puts the girl to the icon of the Virgin, the boy is brought into the altar;
  • now you can transfer the newly baptized baby to the mother. The parent brings out a crumb of their temple;
  • all guests, godparents go home with their parents to celebrate the baptism of the baby.

The traditional ceremony takes from 30-40 minutes to two hours. The more couples in the church baptize children, the longer the sacrament lasts: the priest pays attention to each child.

Now you know when a newborn baby is baptized, who to make named parents, what to purchase for the ceremony. Consider the recommendations, choose worthy godparents, take a responsible attitude to the preparation of the solemn ceremony. May God and the saints bless the newly baptized baby, protect him from adversity, protect him from troubles and the influence of dark forces!