Some Christening or Baptism Questions Answered

(1) Are ‘Baptism’ and ‘Christening’ the same thing?

There is no difference between a Baptism service and a Christening service – they are two terms for the same thing. Traditionally, ‘Christening’ refers to becoming a member of a church and ‘Baptism’ refers to being immersed in water.

(2) Does Baptism  give names to babies?

No, babies are given names when their births are registered.

(3) What happens during the service?

When a baby is Baptised water will be blessed and poured over his/her head. The baby will be signed with a cross and a candle may be given. Parents and Godparents will make promises on behalf of the baby and prayers will be said. There may also be readings and hymns.

(4) Who can have a Christening service?

Anybody, although it is usually babies.

(5) How much does a Christening service cost?

Nothing, the service is free.

(6) Where can the Christening be held?

It can be held at your local parish church. If you want to hold it at another church you should talk to the vicar at that church.

(7) Do you need Godparents?

You should have at least three Godparents (the parents can count as two). These should be people who are Baptised themselves and old enough to make serious promises on behalf of a child.

(8) Is it appropriate to buy Christening presents?

It is not necessary to buy christening presents, but this can be a nice thing to do.  In our view, ideal gifts include: a christening candle (such as the following hand decorated candle that can be used during the service), a small decorative keepsake (such as the following Swarovski crystal cross christening gift) or a christening album (such as the following baby girl’s soft christening album).

(9) How do you arrange a Christening?

You simply get in touch with the vicar of the church where you want to have the baptism.

To find out more about christenings (from a Church of England perspective) visit:

https://www.churchofengland.org/media-centre/news/2013/07/top-10-facts-about-christenings.aspx