By Zachary R. Chadwick
Christening comes from the Christian tradition of baptism. It symbolises the washing away of sin, as well as the joining of the baptised person into the world of Christianity. The Church of England emphasises that it is also a celebration, intended to give thanks to God for giving all of us life. But this only gives us what Christening means symbolically, and leaves the question of the practices that make it up?
The ceremony itself takes place at the local church. Whether this is Church of England, or another denomination, the usual process is to discuss things with the priest or vicar well in advance to organise the service. You may have to go through a period of 'instruction' - being told some tenements of bringing a child up in the Christian faith - beforehand, so it's worth checking. Also choosing hymns and arranging a private service for just you and your family might be possible.
The requirements for godparents also differ depending on different denominations. Traditionally if you have a baby girl, two women and one man are chosen as godparents, while if you have a boy the standard is for two men and one woman. This isn't set in stone though. Also, some churches may require that the godparents are confirmed Christians - people who have progressed to the taking of sacrament - but again this differs from place to place.
The reception has become a modern part of Christenings, and it's a great way of getting friends and family gathered to celebrate the child's special day. Godparents usually give gifts for this event, with traditional options being silver spoons or tankards. Traditionally these were thought to keep away evil.
And that's it basically. The whole process is fairly simple, especially thanks to its traditional framework, and how big a party you arrange to celebrate things is entirely up to you.
About the Author:
Research online for christening presents (http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/christening-gifts/) to suit any child.
Christening comes from the Christian tradition of baptism. It symbolises the washing away of sin, as well as the joining of the baptised person into the world of Christianity. The Church of England emphasises that it is also a celebration, intended to give thanks to God for giving all of us life. But this only gives us what Christening means symbolically, and leaves the question of the practices that make it up?
The ceremony itself takes place at the local church. Whether this is Church of England, or another denomination, the usual process is to discuss things with the priest or vicar well in advance to organise the service. You may have to go through a period of 'instruction' - being told some tenements of bringing a child up in the Christian faith - beforehand, so it's worth checking. Also choosing hymns and arranging a private service for just you and your family might be possible.
The requirements for godparents also differ depending on different denominations. Traditionally if you have a baby girl, two women and one man are chosen as godparents, while if you have a boy the standard is for two men and one woman. This isn't set in stone though. Also, some churches may require that the godparents are confirmed Christians - people who have progressed to the taking of sacrament - but again this differs from place to place.
The reception has become a modern part of Christenings, and it's a great way of getting friends and family gathered to celebrate the child's special day. Godparents usually give gifts for this event, with traditional options being silver spoons or tankards. Traditionally these were thought to keep away evil.
And that's it basically. The whole process is fairly simple, especially thanks to its traditional framework, and how big a party you arrange to celebrate things is entirely up to you.
About the Author:
Research online for christening presents (http://www.find-me-a-gift.co.uk/christening-gifts/) to suit any child.