ANYTHING TOO SOMBRE: People often wonder if they can wear black to a christening, and the answer to this one is yes: unlike weddings, there aren't many colour-related superstitions related to christenings, and black should be fine, as long as the outfit affects the occasion.
Jeans are not appropriate nor are very high heels suitable for a christening.
A good option for the godmother at the baptism is a cocktail dress, but it must be at least knee-length and not shorter. Midi skirts with some New Look flair can also look perfect for a baptism.
Chinos are acceptable if it's a smart-casual event, just make sure they're slim fit rather than loose. Most smart shoes are fine for christenings, but we'd recommend some stylish ankle boots with this outfit.
A Christening is generally a formal and traditional affair, similar to a religious wedding. If the parents haven't specified a dress code, you should assume that for men it means a blazer and proper trousers. A tie is optional these days with many men under forty opting to forgo the silk knot.
Baptism is believed to cleanse the believer of all the sinful defilements both of original sin and personal sins and the white garment is symbolic of this. The newly baptized will traditionally wear their baptismal garment for eight days, especially when receiving Holy Communion.
Usually semi-formal. Suit and tie for the men, dress or dressy ensemble for the ladies (a tunic or nice blouse with dress pants could also be appropriate, depending on the culture or the family). If wearing a dress it should be church-appropriate: covering the shoulders and at least knee length.
A godparent should dress with the same formality as the baby's parents; everyone should coordinate so you'll look appropriate standing up together. And while the baby's dressed in white, adults probably shouldn't be: etiquette site Debretts.com wisely suggests wearing colors or prints that won't show spills and stains.
There are five universal symbols of baptism: the cross, a white garment, oil, water, and light. Other familiar symbols include the baptismal font, scriptural readings and prayers, and godparents.
Christening gowns are meant to be traditional and tasteful to capture the young one's innocence being welcomed into the faith. Often, this means longer gowns, either past the ankle or around the ankle.
A child's head is never covered during baptism because the sacrament involves either immersion or pouring water over the head. A child's head is never covered during baptism because the sacrament involves either immersion or pouring water over the head.
Christening refers to the naming ceremony (to "christen" means to "give a name to") where as baptism is one of seven sacraments in the Catholic Church. In the sacrament of Baptism the baby's name is used and mentioned, however it is the rite of claiming the child for Christ and his Church that is celebrated.
According to Father James Martin of America Magazine, a donation from $25 to $100 would be appropriate, depending on the family's circumstances. Typically, this gift would be provided by the baby's parents and would be given to the priest or to the parish office.
- Best Overall: CompanyTwentySix Personalized Baby Blanket.
- Best Budget: Malden May God Bless You Wood Picture Frame.
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Note: If the baptism is done by pouring of water, the mother or father usually holds the child; or either godparent may hold the child if it is the tradition. If the baptism is by immersion, either godparent or either parent can lift the child out of the font.
Most christenings take place between spring and autumn, so you can opt for floaty dresses, lightweight skirts and linen suits. If you're invited to a christening at a church, you should cover your shoulders for traditional reasons, but also to keep warm as they can be extra draughty too.
Religious items as christening giftsThe christening ceremony is a significant religious one and for that reason, some people will choose to give religious items or keepsakes as a gift – for example, a cross for the baby, a religious statue or a bible or perhaps a set of rosary beads.
Can You Wear White to a Baby Shower as a Guest? Yes, white and cream are perfectly acceptable and work mixed with pastels or bright colors, or worn just on their own.
an engraved silver spoon. a silver cup. a silver frame to hold a picture of the baptism.
If you're not religious yourself or don't share the same faith, you could opt for a personalized gift such as:
- an engraved photo album.
- a keepsake box.
- a special blanket.
- glassware with baptism date.
