Baptism is taken very seriously in Christianity. It is believed that after this rite, a person is born again. In other words, this is how the spiritual coming into being takes place. What days are children baptized in the church? In our article you can find the answer to this question. In doing so, we will consider other important features of the rite. Now let's talk about this sacrament in more detail.

Baptism

How and when to baptize a child? What days can the sacrament be held? It is generally customary to perform the ceremony with newborn babies or babies under the age of one year. The sacrament is performed on the days established by the church. But it also happens that completely adult people come to baptism. This is due to the fact that back in the days of the Soviet Union it was forbidden to baptize children and attend church in general. But there are those who have decided to change their faith and go to Christianity.

Future spiritual parents must be present at baptism. They are chosen by the mother and father of the child, or by the baptized person himself, if we are talking about a completely adult person. Spiritual parents will be mentors to their godson. They should protect him in the same way as his own parents would. And in the event of the premature death of mom and dad, or another reason why the child remains an orphan, the spiritual father and mother will have to take the upbringing of the godson into their own hands.

sacrament clothing

For the rite of baptism, a special attire is required. It could be a denim shirt that the future godmother of the child should buy. You also need a white diaper, towel or, as the people call it, kryzhma, in order to wrap or wipe the baptized. The future spiritual mentor should also bring this.

The godfather must purchase a pectoral cross in the church, with which the ceremony will be performed. For the baby, it is desirable that he be on a ribbon or string, for safety reasons. If the cross was not bought in the temple, it must be consecrated before the ceremony. Remember that if baptism takes place in an Orthodox church, a Catholic cross will not work for that ceremony. It is very easy to distinguish them.

Who should be at the ceremony?

Before talking about the days on which children are baptized in the church, it is necessary to talk about those present at the ceremony. Baptism has long been considered a sacrament. Therefore, only the holy father, the child and future godparents can be present at it. But to date, no one adheres to this rule. Therefore, almost all relatives are invited to the baptism of a child and even a photographer is ordered to capture this event on camera. But some priests still do not approve of this innovation.

It is also desirable, before baptizing a child, for a spiritual parent to go to church seminars, where they will be told about the responsibility placed on them and how to behave correctly during the rite itself. But again, today no one observes this rule. And future mentors appear only on the day of the ceremony, where a few minutes before it begins, the priest tells what they will have to do.

When the ceremony begins, the parents bring the child in their arms to the church. Then they give it to one of the godparents. The boy must be held by the girl, and the girl by the man. When the ceremony begins, there should be complete silence in the temple, only the priest reads prayers. They must be repeated by both parents. With these prayers they renounce the devil twice. After that, the priest takes the child and reads prayers of anointing over him. Then comes the shearing process. It doesn't matter if it's a boy or a girl. The priest cuts a cross on the child's head. This rite symbolizes obedience to the Lord and a kind of sacrifice. If a boy is baptized, then the priest brings him to the altar in his arms. If it is a girl, then her holy father leans against the icon of the Mother of God. After these ceremonies, the child returns to spiritual parents, but vice versa.

Age

On what days are children baptized in the church, at what age? As we have already found out in this article earlier, anyone can undergo the sacrament. In this case, age does not matter. The rite can be passed even by those who are over eighteen.

However, it is best to do this as soon as possible. It is believed that after the baptism of the child, the devil will not be able to take possession of his soul and guide him on the wrong path. The earlier the sacrament is held, the calmer the baby will sleep, the less sick. Many parents wonder if a child can be baptized if they themselves are not baptized. Of course you can and should. And even parents themselves can be baptized if such a desire arises.

If a person decides to be baptized in adulthood, then before that he must undergo catechization and thus remove original sin from himself.

Days of the ceremony in the temple

When is the best time to celebrate? On what days are children baptized in the church? It is believed that it is best to perform the ceremony with a child on the fortieth day from his birth. It has absolutely nothing to do with the baby. It’s just that if it is vital for him that his mother be present at the ceremony with him, then forty days must pass before the woman can enter the temple. After giving birth, a girl is considered dirty during this period, so you need to wait until her body is cleansed.

After the expiration of the prescribed period, the priest reads a prayer of purification over the woman, after which she can enter the temple. But it also happens that a child needs to be christened urgently. This may be due mainly to the illness of the baby. Then the mother is forbidden to attend the ceremony. The most optimal age for the baptism of a baby is considered to be up to six months.

As for religion, it does not matter at all what days children are baptized in the church. But each temple has its own schedule and time allotted for the ceremony. Therefore, before baptizing a baby, parents must first go to the church where the sacrament will be held and agree on the time and day with the priest.

So what day of the week can a child be baptized? As we have already found out earlier, it is possible to perform the ceremony on any day of the week, regardless of whether it is a weekend or a weekday.

Where and on what days can a child be baptized?

Children are allowed to be baptized not only in the temple or church. You can conduct the ceremony at home or in any other place chosen by the parents. To do this, you need to invite the priest and purchase everything you need in advance. On which day to baptize a child at home, it also does not matter, as if you did it in the temple. The main thing here is to agree with the holy father, who will conduct the ceremony. He will appoint the time and day when he can arrive at the place you have appointed.

celebration

We found out what day of the week children are baptized and how to conduct the ceremony. Now consider how best to celebrate this event.

After the ceremony, usually all those invited go to the baby's house. This is where the celebration begins. Parents set a generous table with refreshments. According to old customs, it is believed that it must have cookies and pies. But no matter how the celebration of this secret ceremony is carried out, the main thing is that the baby grows up strong and healthy.

In churches with a baptistery (baptistery), baptism is carried out in this special room with a holy font, which is a separate building or an extension to the church. In most cases, the baptism of a child takes place directly in the temple by three times immersion in a bowl or pouring holy water over the head. From the point of view of photography, it is better to choose a church where they baptize in the main church and choose a weekday so that there are fewer people.

Preparing for the sacrament - what you need to know

You can choose any date for baptism, since the sacrament is allowed to be performed on Great Divine Feasts, and during periods of fasting. Just take into account the following:

Before baptism, godparents must go through categorical conversations, confess and take communion. Three days before the sacrament, fasting must be observed: do not eat food of animal origin, do not use foul language, and do not have intimacy.

Preparing for the christening of a girl

The main recipient for the girl is the godmother. She takes the baby from the font and holds her in her arms until the end of the ceremony. It is her duty to prepare a new white canvas ( ) to dry the baby after dipping. In summer it can be a diaper, in winter - a terry towel or a warm flannel sheet. For newborns, it is better to choose models with a hood corner to cover the wet head more tightly and get wet hair wet.

The godmother also needs to buy a white baptismal shirt and which are put on at the cut after the font, as a symbol of purity and sinlessness of the soul. For a girl, you can choose. The cut of clothing should be made in such a way as to provide access to the chest, arms and legs for chrismation.

The pectoral cross is supposed to be bought by the godfather. The product can be made of, or less precious metals and even wood. To the cross you need to pick up a rope or chain. For newborns with a clasp, it is preferable because it is more pleasant to the body.

Preparing for a boy's christening

Preparation for the baptism of a boy proceeds in a similar way. and the godmother acquires, the cross must be bought for the godfather.

After dipping into the font, the boy is accepted into the kryzhma by the godfather, as the main godfather. After dressing in baptismal clothes, the godfather also holds the child in his arms.

In addition, the godfather must be prepared to pay for the rite of baptism.

How is the baptism of a child in the church - the main stages of the ceremony

The sacrament of baptism is preceded by the rite of naming. If the name of the baptized is listed in the Saints, then the priest chooses a heavenly patron from the list of saints with the same name. If the name by which the child is named is not in the Orthodox calendar, then they select one that is consonant with it, for example, Yegor - George, Maryana - Mariamna. When there is no similar name, they call the name of the saint who is revered on the baby's birthday. Announcement Before the sacrament, the child is completely undressed and kept in the same swaddling clothes. If it is cool in the temple, then it is allowed to leave some clothes, exposing the breast, arms and legs.

The sacrament of baptism itself begins with the rite of pronouncement. The priest lays his hand on the baptized and pronounces the words of a prayer in which he asks God to allow the baptized to approach His name of the Lord and enlist His protection.

Denial of the Devil and Combination with Christ

According to church tradition, instead of the baby, the recipients renounce the devil and unite with Christ.

First, the priest asks the godparents with the person being baptized to turn to the west, standing with their backs to the altar (symbolically, this side is considered the abode of Satan) and utter the words of renunciation of the devil and his evil deeds, then blow and spit as a sign of contempt for the unclean. After the priest says to turn to the east, to the side of the Lord, and give consent to the combination with Christ. This stage ends with the reading of the prayer, which the godparents need to know by heart and understand its meaning.

Baptism itself Next, the priest conducts the consecration of the oil and water in the font. Before immersing the baby in the font, he anoints the chest, ears, arms, and legs with oil to strengthen the child in the fight against the devil, which the Orthodox Christian will have to wage throughout his life. The culmination of the mystery is coming: The father immerses the child three times in water with the words: “The servant of God (servant of God) (Name) is baptized in the name of the Father. Amen. And the Son. Amen. And the Holy Spirit. Amen, which symbolizes death to sin and rebirth to a new righteous life. The receiver accepts the newly baptized from the font to the roof. The child is carefully dried and dressed in a white christening shirt, as a symbol of the purity of the soul. The father puts a cross on the baby's chest.

Chrismation

Immediately after baptism, the sacrament of Confirmation follows, endowing the newly baptized with the grace-filled power of the Holy Spirit:

• With a brush dipped in sacred fragrant oil, the priest makes crosses on the face and other parts of the body with the words “The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Amen".
• Then the priest with the godparents and the newly baptized go around the font three times, after which the priest washes and wipes the myrrh from the body of the child, saying: “You were baptized, enlightened, anointed, sanctified, washed, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen".
• The rite of baptism ends with a cross-shaped haircut from the child’s head as a sign of service to God with the words: “The servant of God (servant of God) (Name) is sheared, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” The priest cuts small locks of hair from four sides of the head, rolls them into a ball of wax, which is then lowered into the font.

In conclusion, a prayer is read for the recipient and the newly baptized, mentioning the name of the heavenly patron of the child, a special litany and dismissal.

After the 40th day from birth, a rite of churching is performed over a baptized child. The priest raises the baby three times and depicts the sign of the cross in the porch of the temple, in the middle of the temple and at the Royal Doors with the words: “The servant of God (servant of God) is being churched in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” The clergyman brings the girl at the Royal Doors and puts it on the image of the Most Holy Theotokos, and with this the churching is completed. The boy, as a potential clergyman, is brought into the altar through the northern door, goes around the throne, past the high place, then puts it on the image of the Savior and passes it on to his parents or godparents.

Participle

Sometimes communion takes place immediately after baptism, but most often the priest invites the parents to come with the child on another day, for example, a week later. On the appointed day, the mother and baby are allowed to come closer to the end of the morning service, after which Communion follows, where the baby is communed with wine (the Blood of Christ).

How long does the rite of baptism take?

The duration of the ceremony depends on the number of people being baptized. An individual sacrament takes about 40 minutes, a group one up to 1 hour.

Features of the baptism of children of different ages

The baptism of a child aged 7 to 14 years (lad) is carried out in a similar way as in adults. He also needs to go through categorical conversations, learn prayers, prepare for the ceremony: attend a service in the temple, endure a three-day fast (in the absence of medical contraindications).

Consent to conduct the sacrament must be given by the child himself and his parents. Children over the age of 14 can choose to be baptized on their own. Parental consent is not required for this.

According to church canons, children under 12 years of age need sponsors to be baptized. In the case of babies, godparents pronounce vows instead of godchildren, in the case of older children, they are vouched for their words before the Lord. The very rite of baptism of the youths in some churches can be carried out by complete immersion, in others - through pouring over the head (when the size of the bowl is insufficient). In the case of dipping into the font, the child is allowed to immerse in underwear. Teenage girls are advised to wear a T-shirt. After the child is wiped and dressed in baptismal clothes, in which he stays until the end of the ceremony.

Teen Christening Set Includes:

• towel (kryzhmu);
• shirt or shirt;
• a scarf (for a girl);
• pectoral cross;
• slippers.

Video: how the sacrament of baptism of a child goes

In some churches, capturing the Holy Sacrament on video is possible only with the blessing of the priest, so this issue must be agreed in advance.

Young parents often have questions about the need to introduce the baby to the faith. Most of all they are interested in the rules for baptizing a child in the Orthodox Church. Being one of the seven pillars of religion, one of the sacraments, the baptism of a newborn requires strict adherence to a number of conditions.

What is baptism and why is it performed

The sacrament of baptism is one of the main rites of the Orthodox Church.

During it, the believer needs to plunge into a ritual container of water three times, invoking the name of the Most Holy Trinity: the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. At this time, he dies to the old life, filled with sins. Immediately the soul is reborn by the Holy Spirit to inherit Eternal Life.

The basis for this sacrament was the instructions from the Holy Scriptures, which can be found in Jn. 3, 5, and also Mk. 16:16 where the Son of God gives instructions that cannot be misunderstood.

This sacrament can be called a process of rebirth for spiritual existence, a new life that will allow you to reach the Kingdom of Heaven.

Baptism is called a sacrament, because in the process a force incomprehensible to the human mind takes part, mysteriously affecting the soul of a person, which is called Grace. There is an establishment by God of its necessity, indicated in the lines of Holy Scripture Matt. 28, 19:

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit

Only after passing through the sacrament of Baptism does a person have the opportunity to approach others, becoming part of the Church of Christ.

At what age should a child be baptized

Given the importance of the perception of faith, many are interested in the question of the appropriateness of the Orthodox rite in infancy. Of course, it is very important to baptize an adult and a person who understands the step taken. Usually, such an action is resorted to by those who did not go through the rite in childhood, while being brought up in a family of non-Christians.

In the families of Orthodox Christians, everything happens differently. Believing parents from childhood will accustom their child to the true, correct faith in God, instilling in him their own concepts. In addition, not only they will take part in education. The godparents, acquired by the baby during the sacrament, take on their soul their great responsibility, pledging to raise the newly acquired son in accordance with the rules of the Faith of Christ, becoming his spiritual mentors. The baptism of an infant is carried out not according to his faith, but according to the faith of his parents and godparents, who take the vow of raising a worthy son or daughter of the Christian Church.

The prototype of baptism can be called the ancient Old Testament custom to carry out circumcision a week after the appearance of a child in this world. Such an action showed one's faith in God, as well as belonging to the people chosen by Him. John Chrysostom in his writings states that the rite of baptism is the most obvious difference between the souls faithful to the Lord and the unfaithful. In Holy Scripture Col. 2:11-12 says that the completion of the Orthodox rite of baptism is the reign of death and the burial of the spirit for sin, as well as its rebirth for true life in the house of Christ.

There are no clear rules about what age is most suitable for the baptism of a child. Usually, the ceremony is performed approximately 6 weeks (40 days) after the birth of the child, although this can be done earlier or later. It is not worth delaying the performance of the sacrament for a long time, since the evil one can create obstacles endlessly.

Choosing a name for baptism

In Russia, the choice of the name of the child was carried out according to the holy calendar. To do this, they followed the rule of choosing the names of saints, the days of veneration of which fell on the nearest to the birth of the baby. This is one of the main ways to choose a name, but you can do it differently.

It must be remembered that a name is a practical thing. At baptism, we put into the rite the realization of our faith in a practical sense. In the calendar there are names that do not sound familiar at all, respectively, they cut the ear. To remember all the holy calendar by heart is given to a rare clergyman, which can lead to a number of questions, and even raise doubts about the conduct of the baptismal ritual in this person. Each time it is quite difficult to talk about the fact that this is the name of the saint indicated in the calendar. In addition, there is usually a long queue for the Communion bowl, and such a conversation will take a lot of time.

The easiest way to choose a name for baptism is to perform a ceremony with the one that is already recorded on the birth certificate. Now the world is very popular names that are not listed in the calendar, such as Snezhana, Liana and others. Here you can ask the priest to help you choose similar-sounding names in the calendar, for example, Anna or Leah.

Some people want to baptize a child with a name that is completely different from the mundane. They are sure that a name unknown to others can help protect themselves from the evil eye or damage. This approach to baptism is unacceptable, so most priests who perform the ceremony will immediately refuse to perform the ceremony with a different name. They will give what is written in the birth certificate or consonant.

It must be remembered that the saints are examples for life. Choosing one of them, we at the same time ask them for intercession and support at baptism, and also push the Christian to follow the path paved by these saints, to imitate a great man. And do not forget that the rite of baptism and naming is needed not for protection from corruption, but for inheriting the path to the Kingdom of God.

Preparing the baptismal outfit

When a child is baptized, it is necessary to have a special vestment for the child. Previously, it was prepared by parents, grandmothers, godparents. Now everything has become much easier, because you can buy such a set in a church or even a regular store.

The baptism kit consists of:

• a loose shirt in which you can easily wrap a wet baby after bathing;
• headdress;
• a beautiful napkin designed for a candle;
• diaper;
• a decorated towel, which is popularly called "kryzhma".

A towel is necessary for the priest to transfer the child to it to the godparents. In addition, the weather can also bring some changes to the set, since on cold autumn or winter days it is better to take a warm diaper with a hood, a blanket, an insulated shirt and booties.

What days are baptisms allowed?

Some parents doubt the choice of the day for the ceremony. When making a choice, it is necessary to understand that there are no strict rules for choosing. You can spend it on any day, the main thing is to pay attention to the regime that is supported by the church chosen by the parents.

Only a priest can allocate time in the routine, therefore it is necessary to consult on this issue only with him.

What days can not be baptized

As we have already discussed, almost any day can be singled out for the baptism of a child. At the same time, there are some signs that many people believe in. These include:

• holding a funeral before the ritual, which can bring trouble to the life of the baby;
• the attraction of diseases to the child, if the one who was baptized in the same set gets sick;
• when a priest makes a mistake during the ritual.

All these signs are just tricks worked out by human imagination. Funeral rituals are held almost daily in every major temple. If all this is very important to you, then buy a new set of baptismal robes, and then ask the priest to conduct the ceremony in the morning. Most likely, he will understand his parents, so he will agree to this.

What is needed for the baptism of a boy

The baptism of a child and the constant impact on him, the upbringing of a Christian is one of the main missions in our world. The first thing that is needed in this case is preparedness and attentiveness. Godparents need to develop themselves, read and absorb the maximum amount of spiritual literature in order to be able to become a reliable support and helper for the godson in any life situation.

When baptizing a boy, it is necessary to take into account all the qualities of the godfather, who will become one of the objects of imitation for the pupil. Courage, self-control, endurance, willpower and fortitude are the main indicators of such a person. That is why he needs to conduct comprehensive training.

Before the start of the sacrament, the godparents must buy a pectoral cross, a cap and a shirt for the newly acquired child.

What is needed for the baptism of a girl

Preparing for a girl's baptism is equally important. At the same time, it should be borne in mind that the influence in the process of education will come from the godmother, who needs to teach the girl in the process of life patience, faith, reliability and fidelity. She, by her example and counsel, should become a support for the young child of God. In this regard, her knowledge also needs to be replenished with spiritual literature.

The rite requires almost the same preparation as in the case of a boy. But you just need to buy a kryzhma, a cross, a baptismal dress. The set may also include a scarf, tights and other accessories.

How to choose godparents

When making a choice of planted parents, it is necessary to take into account the following rules:

1. The godparents of a new Christian must cross the line from childhood to adulthood, while being of age, realizing the importance of the responsibility taken on their souls. It is impossible to conduct a ceremony with children in the status of godparents.
2. Those who live in a Christian marriage, or are just about to enter into it, can become godparents for a child. Their righteous life in marriage can become one of the main movers of the faith of the new Christian.
3. Those who live in a civil marriage cannot become godparents to a child. Their life in sin will negatively affect the psyche of a Christian child, corrupting his soul.
4. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and other relatives can also be godparents for a child.
5. In no case should you take a foster parent as godparents. A stepfather or stepmother becomes his family, which will not give additional support to the spirit, but will deprive her of it.
6. Choosing their godfathers for the baptism of a child, parents will not make a mistake. If people mutually respect each other and consider each other to be examples of the true faith, then this will only be an additional protection for the child from external negative influences.
7. If parishioners wish to take a priest's child as a godfather, this is welcome. It is in the family of an Orthodox clergyman that a child can learn the true perception of faith.
8. Choose as godparents those people who can be present during the ceremony in person. It is impossible to register as godparents in absentia, since being present at baptism guarantees taking responsibility for the fate of the child.
9. Monastics cannot be chosen godparents. If, however, Orthodox tonsure is accepted after making commitments, then the duties of caring for the soul of the godson not only do not decrease, but also become more voluminous.
10. You can baptize a child only with Christian godparents, who also underwent the rite of baptism.

If you think that someone in your environment is worthy of the honor of becoming one of the parents of your baby (and this is indeed the case, it’s not for nothing that they are called godmother and godfather), then feel free to contact him with this offer. Be sure to make sure that they comply with the above rules.

Rules for the ceremony for godparents

Planted parents in the Orthodox rite have their own special role. In doing so, it is necessary to remember the rules, which are that:

• the godmother acquires vestments and kryzhma;
• the ordained father who takes the vow is charged with the cost of baptism;
• each participant in the ceremony must have a pectoral cross;
• godparents need to know by heart the prayer "I believe."

The godparents bring the child to church, trying to do it early. When a girl is baptized, the godfather only needs to be present at the ceremony, as well as pay all expenses. When a boy is baptized, it is he who takes the child and does all the necessary manipulations.

In the process of the ceremony, godparents, if possible, should voice all prayers and pronounce “Amen” on time.

Gifts can be given after the sacrament.

Responsibilities of Godparents

The responsibilities of foster parents include:

• teaching the child the basics of Christianity;
• teaching a child to pray
• be an example of mercy, love and kindness.

At the same time, there are clear rules for imprisoned parents: always wear a pectoral cross, know all the necessary prayers and be able to correctly make the sign of the cross.

Prayer for baptism

During the ceremony, a prayer is used, which the godparents need to know by heart:

How the ceremony takes place and its unspoken rules

After acquiring all the necessary attributes and consecrating the pectoral crosses, naturally, the sacrament of the rite itself begins. It goes in this order:

1. Announcement, consisting of reading a series of special short prayers - "prohibitions".
2. Renunciation of Satan and union with Christ. All answers to the questions asked by the priest must be given by the godparents instead of the godson.
3. Baptism in the font with these words ...
4. Adoption of a child by a godfather (a girl - a woman, a boy - a man).
5. Chrismation. It is carried out using consecrated oil.
6. Triple detour around the font.
7. Reading a passage from the letter of the Apostle Paul to the Romans.
8. Washing off the oil from the body of a child with the words ...
9. Tov. Bunches of hair are cut crosswise with the words ...
10. Petition for godparents and completion of the sacrament.
11. Churching. The priest carries the girl around the temple, while the boy is also entered into the altar.

Christening celebrations and gifts

A large feast at baptism is optional. It is best if only the people closest to the family gather. In addition, a large grouping of people will not bring joy to the baby, but will cause him fatigue and irritation.

You should not give gifts that will not be agreed with the parents, especially expensive ones. Usually children are given clothes, toys. If you want to make an original gift, you should think about whether it is appropriate.

The celebration of christening is not only a social event, but also a spiritual one. On this day, it is better to devote more time to prayer and piety.

The Sacrament of Baptism takes about 30-40 minutes. In advance, you need to decide on the name for the child, which will be given to him at Baptism, with the choice of the temple and the purchase of baptismal supplies. It is also necessary to first visit the temple where the Sacrament will take place and talk with the priest. With all the preliminary moments, preparation for Baptism will take no more than a week.

At what age is a child baptized?

You can baptize a child at any age.

There is a tradition that a child should be baptized on the 40th day from the date of his birth. This is due to the fact that 40 days is mentioned in the Old Testament, and it is also believed that until the 40th day the mother cannot attend the Sacrament due to natural reasons. But you can baptize earlier or later, the main thing is not to delay for a long time, not to leave the soul of the child without the grace of God.

In which church should a child be baptized?

Everyone decides for himself in which temple it is better to baptize his child. For a small child, it is preferable if the church is located near the house. First of all, you can find out from relatives, close friends, where they baptized their children. What they liked, what they didn't. You should know that the larger the church, the more children will be baptized in it. It can be difficult for toddlers to wait an hour and a half for their turn.

You should first visit the chosen temple and get acquainted with when you can perform the Sacrament of Baptism. Perhaps you have chosen a specific date and would like to baptize on that day. You can find all the detailed information in the church. A child can be baptized on any day, however, each parish has its own rules and you should know them in advance.

Usually baptized in the morning after the service.

Is it possible to baptize a child in winter?

There are no obstacles to performing the Sacrament of Baptism in the winter season. The church is warm, the water for baptism is heated. I baptized my second daughter at the end of October at the Gerasimo-Boldinsky Monastery in the Smolensk Region. We were two families who baptize babies. The children behaved wonderfully, no one cried. In the monastery itself it was warm, even hot, cozy and festive. The eldest daughter was baptized there, but in the summer. There were much more people, about 10 people. However, everything went surprisingly smoothly, the Sacrament of Baptism itself took no more than an hour in time.

How much does a baptism cost?

There is no official fee in the Orthodox Church. Here it is important to understand that in our country the Church is separated from the State, and, therefore, it exists only on the donations of the parishioners. Therefore, the amount that they will call you in the temple is only indicative. You can pay more if your funds allow. If you have a difficult life situation and you cannot pay for Baptism now, any priest is obliged to baptize the child for free. If you were denied a particular church, you can contact the dean or other higher priests.

In Moscow and the Moscow Region, the donation for Baptism is about 2,000-5,000 rubles. For an individual performance of the Sacrament, the amount may be slightly higher. In the regions, donations of 1000 rubles are made, for example, in the churches of the Smolensk region, 1500-2500 rubles are contributed for the baptism of a child.

Why do we need a conversation with the priest before Baptism?

A preliminary conversation with the priest is necessary so that the parents understand the full importance and responsibility of the Sacrament being performed. It is necessary to baptize according to faith, and not because the child is often sick, does not eat well, and is some kind of naughty.

During the conversation, the priest will tell about the Holy Scriptures, about the life of Jesus. About why a person is baptized. On the role of godparents in a child's life.

Discourses have recently become obligatory in many temples. They usually take place where you will baptize the child. Churches have rooms for Sunday school, usually where the priest invites parents and godparents. In most temples, such talks take place on weekends, usually on Saturdays. But the priest can appoint another time convenient for you and him.

How to choose the right godparents?

Godparents for one child cannot be a husband and wife, the parents themselves, as well as monastics. All other believers can be godparents.

As for the age at which one can become a godfather, there are discrepancies. Some priests say that from the age of majority, others - that from the age of 14 you can become a godfather or mother. With this question, it is better to turn to the priest at the categorical conversation before the Sacrament.

In the Russian Orthodox tradition, it is customary to have two godparents for a child: a man and a woman. However, there are no instructions in the Church on this matter. So, you can baptize a child with one godfather: for a boy, a man is traditionally chosen as a godfather, for a girl - a woman.

With the permission of the priest, unbaptized people, representatives of other religions can become godparents, and you can also become a godfather in absentia, if there are significant reasons for that.

Assuming such responsibility, it should be understood that the godfather is the person who is obliged to support the child at turning points in life. It is the godfather who should be next to his godson when he moves away from his parents in adolescence.

Advice to parents: choose a godfather to your liking. It is good if this person is close to your child and can visit him from time to time. If you offered to become a godfather, and the person refused, you should not beg him. Perhaps the person feels that they are not ready to take on this responsibility. Look for another person.

Literature for parents and godparents:

Hieromonk Macarius (Markish) - ""

Archpriest Valentin Mordasov - ""

Do parents and godparents need to confess, take communion before performing the Sacrament of Baptism?

No, it's optional.

What should godparents buy for baptism?

Usually the godfather buys a pectoral cross for the godson, and also pays for the expenses of performing the Sacrament of Baptism. The godmother can also buy a cross for her goddaughter, as well as other necessary things.

Baptismal set for a boy includes:

A new baptismal shirt and kryzhma (towel).

If the child is breastfed, you can purchase additional socks and a bonnet. During Baptism, the diaper, if there is one on the baby, is best removed. You can put it on after the baby has been dipped into the font three times.

Kryzhma, bonnet, shirt and booties for a boy

Baptismal set for a girl includes:

Baptismal dress, headscarf and kryzhma (towel).

For a girl, instead of a baptismal shirt, you can buy a baptismal dress.

Traditionally, blue tones are used in the decoration of the baptismal outfit for boys, and pink for girls. But the outfit can also be snow-white as a symbol of purity. For girls, it is allowed to decorate the baptismal set with ruffles and lace.

Baptismal attire should be made only from natural materials: cotton or linen, silk is most often used for decoration.

To choose the right outfit for Baptism, you need to know the age of the child, at least approximately his height or weight. Buy a christening gown in the size your child usually wears. For a boy, you can buy a baptismal shirt one size larger than usual, because. It's made from cotton and doesn't stretch. This will make it easier to put on.

In the winter season, you should buy a towel with a hood.

A baptismal set can also be bought at the church, but not always. Small churches won't sell it to you. Parents themselves can purchase such a set, and godparents then give something else.

Baptismal attire is customary to keep throughout life. If necessary, it can be washed.

To perform the Sacrament of Baptism, you will need baptismal candles, on which elegant lace napkins are put on so that the wax does not drip onto your hands. You can buy such candles in any church shop.

What should be given to the godparents for baptism?

Any gift can be. A good book, household items, something necessary for a child. Often godparents present icons of Jesus Christ, the Most Holy Theotokos, the Saint in whose honor the baby is named, prayer books, Bibles for children, and other spiritual literature.

Measured icons are usually made to order in icon-painting workshops.

Some order beautiful measured icons that will become a family heirloom and possibly be passed down from generation to generation. The measured icon is called because it is made in the size of the child at the time of his birth. Such a shrine is made to order, depicting a saint on it - the patron saint of a child. If the godparents know the name of the saint in whose honor their godson will be named, they can pre-order a measured icon for a gift. It is made in icon-painting workshops at churches, or you can search for private manufacturers of such icons on the Internet. The average cost of a measured icon in Moscow is 17,000 rubles.

Who is present at Baptism?

Priest Alexander Ilyushenko answers as follows: “All relatives and just close people can be present at the baptism. Baptism is called a sacrament not because it is performed in secret from everyone, but because in baptism, as in the performance of other church sacraments, under the visible way of performing the established sacred rites, the soul of the believer is communicated the invisible grace of the Holy Spirit.

A mother can also be present at the Baptism of her child. There are no restrictions for her today. In the pre-Christian era, there was a ban on visiting the temple for a woman who had just given birth. Only after 40 days she could cross the threshold of the temple and touch the shrines. But today this rule of ritual purity is no longer as important as it used to be.

Under what name should the child be baptized?

If you named your child according to the Saints, then the name at Baptism will be the same. For example, your girl was born on January 25, and you named her Tatyana. At Baptism, she will have the name Tatyana in honor of the Holy Great Martyr Tatiana, whose memorial day the Orthodox celebrate on January 25th.

In the Russian Orthodox Church, they baptize only under those names that are contained in the Saints, i.e. there must be an Orthodox saint with the same name. You cannot baptize a child with a name that is not there.

Participating in the performance of the Church Sacraments, submitting notes, the name given at Baptism is always indicated.

But what if your name is not in the Saints? Here is what the priest Dionisy Svechnikov says: “If a person’s name is not Orthodox (not contained in the calendar), then they call him a name in honor of the saint, whose memory falls on the day of baptism (if there is no male or female name on this day, then look at the following days), or on his birthday . And sometimes a person asks to be baptized in honor of a particular saint, and this is quite acceptable. Sometimes they choose a name for a person that is simply consonant with his name.

What to do during Baptism?

All attendees should dress appropriately. There should be nothing bright, defiant, distracting the mind and attention of other people. Women should wear modest skirts and cover their heads with a scarf. It is also necessary to wear a pectoral cross on the chest for those who come to the temple of God to perform the Church Sacrament.

Before Baptism, you should buy candles, prepare a towel, a cross for a child - you will give these things to the priest. You should also keep a towel for the baby and a baptismal outfit at the ready.

During the Sacrament, the priest will put a cross around your child's neck. After that, it is never recommended to remove the cross.

Many parents are afraid that the rope on which the cross weighs can harm the baby. If you have such concerns, you can buy a thin chain or. Even if they get tangled, they will easily tear without harming the child.

All children behave differently in church. But, if you are calm and peaceful, set your soul in a solemn mood, then your child, as a rule, will behave well and calmly. If the baby is breastfed, you should feed him first so that he does not cry from hunger. If the child is sleeping, do not wake him up before time. The mother can take him in her arms if he bursts into tears.

In many churches it is allowed to photograph the Sacrament of Baptism. But again, this issue should be discussed in advance with the priest. The photographer must be as attentive as possible, not intrusive, not interfere with the performance of the Sacrament. It is unacceptable to use mobile phones during Communion.

What happens during the Sacrament of Baptism?

During Baptism, the godparents usually stand behind the priest, one of them holds the child in his arms. The priest reads the main prayers, then asks the godparents and the child to turn their faces to the west and renounce Satan three times.

During Baptism, godparents read two prayers: "Our Father" and "The Creed." The priest will also read these prayers and you can repeat the words quietly after him. Some write in advance the words of prayers on a piece of paper.

Then the baby is chrismated. At each chrismation, the priest pronounces the words: “The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Amen". Godparents repeat after him: "Amen." After that, a strand of hair is cut from the child's head as a sign of his dedication to the Warriors of Christ and readiness to serve God. Then comes the main moment of the Sacrament - a threefold immersion in the Holy Font. In the cold season, the child is not dipped, but only the head, neck and feet are moistened with water. Then one of the godparents takes the baby from the hands of the priest. Thus, he assumes the obligation to raise the child in the faith and will answer for him at the Last Judgment.

What to do after Baptism?

After Baptism, all those present can gather at home in a close family circle and celebrate this solemn event. Relatives can present gifts, say kind words, read poetry. It's good if someone writes a couple of lines himself in honor of such an important event in the life of a little person.

Dear, beloved, dear,
My goddaughter,
You are the only one in the world,
And the whole world is for you today.
Congratulations on your christening day
And I wish you happiness
Let your angel protect you
From misfortune in life and trouble.

Your child has become a Christian, entered the bosom of the Orthodox Church, and now his future path depends only on you and your godparents. If you want to raise a believing person, live a righteous life yourself, keep the commandments of Christ. A child can be brought up only by personal example and good conversations. Godparents, at every opportunity, should talk with their godchildren, explain Christian truths to them, visit churches, confess and take communion. If possible, travel to holy places. Now there is a very large selection of beautiful Christian literature for children. There are books even for the little ones.

During the sacrament of baptism, the baby is accompanied by his godmother or father. But not only for this, they are needed to hold the baby and candles. The sacrament of baptism has a deeper meaning, and therefore it is advisable to carefully prepare for the ceremony.

How to prepare the godfather for the ceremony

After all, we understand that a little silly child cannot yet speak on his own behalf. The godfather pronounces the “Symbol of Faith” prayer on his behalf. He repeats “Amen” after the priest, crosses himself, because the child himself cannot do this either. Also, the godfather will have to utter a vow of renunciation of Satan and a vow of union with Christ.

Before such an important day for the baby, adults should also prepare. On the eve of baptism, godparents need to go to the temple to confess and receive communion.

If they can fast for some time before this solemn day, this is very good, but not necessary. But what is important is that on the very day of the ceremony, the godparents do not have sex and do not eat.

It is clear that since the godfather will need to say a prayer for his godson, then he must know the words of the “Symbol of Faith” by heart. True, in some churches they are allowed to read. The godfather also holds the child in his arms during.

How to choose a godfather

According to church rules, after the christening of the godparent, it is impossible to “change” for another. Therefore, you need to choose for this only a person who is close to the mother and father of the child both spiritually and in their views. So that he willingly visited his godson, prayed for him, took him to the temple.

It becomes clear that the godfather, as the child's godfather, must himself be consecrated, that is, be an Orthodox Christian. He cannot be a Catholic, a Muslim, a Jew or an atheist, even if such a person is your very close friend.

After all, the main thing that a godfather should do is to help his godson become a worthy Christian, grow in the traditions of the Orthodox faith. And it is not permissible to cross the threshold of the Orthodox to a representative of another faith.

Can a godfather be a close relative

Why is it said "godchild" in the singular? Because the baby needs one godfather. Moreover, if you baptize a girl, then you need to choose a godmother for her, if a boy, then a godfather. In other words, the godparent must be the same gender as the baby.

The rest of the participants in the Sacrament can be at least one more (it so happened that parents usually take one more godfather of the opposite sex), at least a few. And all of them can be present at the consecration of the baby, the Church does not forbid this. At the same time, it has long been a tradition to invite both father and mother to be godparents.

As for close relatives, the child's grandparents, aunts and uncles, brothers and sisters can be godparents. But dad and mom - no!

They cannot become godchildren of the same godson. It is considered a sin for the godparent to become the spouse of the godson.

As for the mother of the baby, she does not enter the Temple at all on the day of the baptism of her child. Recently, the Church allows the father of the child to be present at the ceremony.

What to wear on a baby who will be baptized

According to church rules, the godchild must be brought to the temple for the rite of baptism undressed. Therefore, it is simply wrapped in a white sheet.

Since the Sacrament itself lasts quite a long time, it is allowed to put a diaper on the baby: so as not to be distracted in case of something.

There has long been a tradition to give the godson a "light robe", or kryzhma. It can be an ordinary beautiful towel (necessarily new, it should not be washed, it can be ironed), and a white sheet with lace (after all, the rite of Baptism is very solemn). It is in it that the already consecrated baby will be received from the hands of the priest after three dipping into the font.

An elegant baptismal shirt is also prepared for the baby. The godmother usually embroiders it, not to mention the fact that she sews it herself. Often this honorable occupation is taken over by the grandmother of the baby. It is put on after the ceremony, that is, it will be his first Christian clothing. It is also customary to wear a cap, but this is not at all necessary.

What can you give a godson

The main attributes of christening - a cross and a chain - are usually given by the godparent, according to tradition, the father. It is generally accepted that preference should be given. But everyone decides for himself. However, for convenience during the ceremony (so as not to mess with fasteners), it is better to put it on a rope or ribbon.

Also on the day of christening, the godfather can give a silver spoon (often a commemorative engraving is made on it - the name of the baby and the date of the Sacrament).

Of course, godparents can bring anything as a gift. Just a cross and a spoon - traditional things, as they say, for all time.

The rite itself in the temple must be paid for, and these expenses are usually borne by the godparents. If the temple does not quote prices for such services, it is assumed that the godparents will leave donations - as they see fit.

What signs are associated with baptism

It is believed that in the process of the sacrament, the riza acquires some miraculous abilities. And all because droplets of myrrh fall on it, with which the parts of the child’s body are anointed crosswise after the font. Therefore, many do not wash the fabric, covering it with a child when it is ill or falls asleep badly.

But most often kryzhma is used for sewing pillowcases for the baby's first pillow.

The church says that the sign that a girl must be the first to baptize a boy, otherwise she may not get married, is pure superstition.

Scorpion