|
To christen means to bring to Christ. A Christening ceremony, usually performed on an infant, brings a child into a church and officially “names” the child in the eyes of the church.
Through the years different churches offer many variations on this sacred ceremony. Some Christenings involve rites of Baptism (which typically involves the sprinkling or immersion of water), while others involve a blessing and official naming of the child. Others involve a combination of the three. This ritual represents a purification and introduction to the church, though it does not automatically make someone a Christian.
Just as diverse as individual Christening ceremonies are the parties that follow them; these, too, have changed over time. For while it’s likely that Christening parties will always be warm, meaningful gatherings involving friends, family members, and fellow/sister churchgoers, either at a private home, a church reception hall, or at a restaurant or rented community hall, the place and presents involved in this festivity have varied slightly through the years.
Christening gowns, once handmade, are now available at clothing stores or even online. And while a traditional Christening gift might be a Bible or a handmade cross or jewelry, a modern present might consist of a religious figurine (depicting, perhaps, a child with a cross), cross necklaces, or perhaps a picture frame emblazoned with a religious saying or Psalm. All of these are available online or at gift shops, and of course at religious stores.
Regardless of the gifts given at a Christening, the deep significance of this ritual remains true and constant, from generation to generation. Plan a Christening Party today!
Share
the Christening
History with your
kids as a bedtime
story.
|
