Christening Poetry Verses
_____

It's young (Baby’s Name) Christening
This card is sent to say
Enjoy, and be filled with pride
On your very special day

It's (Baby’s Name) Christening
So we send this card to say
Enjoy it, and be filled with pride
On this very special day

 Today.......
At (Baby’s Name) Christening
The Lord will be there
Watching and listening

 Your darling little angel
Was sent from Heaven above
As you celebrate his (her) christening
You're surrounding him (her) with love

First came love
Then came marriage
Then came (name)
In a baby carriage
Now's the time
To make it all complete
And to hold the Christening
Of this child so sweet

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Religious Christening Ceremonies

A newly born child's christening is both an exciting and scary time. For many birth parents there is the excitement of christening their child, but they must also worry about planning a ceremony and choosing godparents. Luckily, they do not have to worry about christening presents, but there is still plenty to keep their minds occupied.

At a church based christening ceremony, there are many religious symbols and overtones. The young child is baptized in the church's holy water - baptism holds lots of significance in itself, too.

Will the christening ceremony be at a Catholic church? If so, the vicar will probably light a candle to symbolize Jesus, discuss it, and then pass it around. 

Additionally, if the christening is held at a Catholic church it will be done as a private ceremony. Some parents prefer this because it offers a private chance to reflect on the gravity of this act. There will be no singing and the christening lasts around half an hour.

At the COE, christenings are usually during the main service that Sunday. In these cases the child is taken to the front of the church, baptized from the holy font, and both birth parents and godparents make a public declaration to help raise the child as a Christian.

As for special considerations unique to your situation, discuss them with your clergy. You may be asked to attend special church classes to discuss the symbolism and special nature of the baptism, and anything else expected of both you and the godparents.

Christening can be a stressful time, but when it's all over you will recall with find memories the bringing of your child to the church.

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Christening Party

A christening or baptism party should be a very special day for parents, child and family. The christening or baptism of a baby or child is a universal initiation rite of the Christian religion involving the sprinkling of water on the child's forehead or immersion in water, symbolizing the washing away of sins. At these ceremonies parents and godparents pledge their intentions to teach the child the basic principles and values based on religious teachings in the presence of family and close friends. Today this ceremony is also associated with the taking of a name to symbolize new life. There is no particular recommendation on a specific age when a child should be christened or baptized. In many instances people who have found religion late in life are baptized as adults.

Christening and naming ceremonies are a time when families and close friends get together to celebrate the occasion. A christening or baptism starts with a religious service at which the child is introduced into the Church. And, because this ceremony is often part of a Church service, the celebration party that follows is in the afternoon or evening. Non-religious parents, on the other hand, welcome their child into the world and publicly voice their intentions for the benefit of the family.

The planning of a christening or baptism should take place well in advance of the ceremony. The date of the celebration will depend on the date that the church service will take place. Parents should contact the Church to make arrangements.

In many Churches the godparents play an important role in the ceremony, so make sure that the godparents are well informed of the different events of the day. The next step is to send invitations. Invite friends and family for whom you have a high regard and who might play a strong positive role in the life of your child. Include information of the sequence of events of the day: venues, dress code and directions. If you intend going to a restaurant, book early.

The child should wear a nice white outfit. Make the outfit yourself or have the child’s outfit made. If a baby is being christened, take into account that babies grow fast and might outgrow the outfit before the ceremony.

When planning the party, keep it simple. The location of your party will depend on the number of guests and the type of party you intend having. A simple, small and casual get-together is often the best way to go and can be fun and memorable. A party in a local park, weather permitting, could turn out to be a fun way to celebrate.

Plan games and food well in advance. If there will be a number of children, arranging specific entertainment for them is a good idea: for instance a clown, magician or jumping castle. For the younger children, an area where they will find toys, coloring books and games is a nice touch. Older kids might enjoy a DVD.

Remember to arrange the photography. Today disposable cameras are cheap and readily available. Buy a few and hand them to a few of your guests and instruct them to take photos. Now wait for the surprise snap shots.

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Ceremonies – An Overview

Is there anything more wonderful than the arrival of a new baby? A brand new little person, ready to join the world. So it’s fitting that such a joyous occasion is celebrated. The question is, how?

People around the world have traditionally conducted a ceremony of some kind - religious or otherwise - to acknowledge the arrival of a new baby. There are many reasons for doing it, but usually it’s to welcome the baby into the family, church or community. Ceremonies help to formally introduce the baby to the people most likely to have an influence on its life or a part responsibility in its upbringing. It’s also a way for proud parents to invite their family, friends, fellow worshippers and community to meet their baby and share in their joy.

The kind of celebration you choose will depend on your beliefs and family values. Although baby ceremonies were largely held in a religious context in the past, these days there are a myriad of ways to celebrate your baby’s arrival. There is no right or wrong – just what works best for you and your family.

When to do it is another decision. Typically ceremonies take place in the first year of a baby’s life, but you can hold ceremonies for toddlers and older children. This often happens when a younger sibling arrives and parents decide to hold a ceremony for both. For religious reasons, some ceremonies happen within the first few days or weeks. However, you may want to wait until your baby is over six months to give yourself more time to investigate your options, recover from the birth or let your child become more settled.

Regardless of how or when you choose to celebrate, a baby ceremony is a special day that will give you, your family and friends lasting memories of this happy time.

Christening/Baptism

This religious proceeding is the traditional baby ceremony in the UK. As church numbers have declined, so too have the number of christenings. However, they are still the most popular ceremony in the country. In 2005, the Church of England recorded 148,000 christenings and thanksgivings while the Catholic Church had 66,500.

In a christening, parents and elected godparents promise to bring up the child in the Christian faith. Godparents are normally Christian friends of the parents or members of the extended family. The ceremony usually forms part of a the main Sunday service – in the Church of England christenings usually take place during a service as it requires the community to make promises on behalf of the child. However, depending on your local priest, private ceremonies can be arranged.

Many parents wonder whether they need to be regular church-goers to have their child christened. It varies church by church. Some priests expect regular attendance and commitment to the Church, while others take a more relaxed approach.

There has been increasing debate about whether people should be undertaking christenings if they’re not devout Christians. Some regular church-goers find it offensive when non-attendees make religious promises they’re unlikely to keep but others believe that God’s love is available to all, regardless of their background. There’s also been a growing trend and heated debate about people baptizing their children simply to get them into a good church-run school, rather than as a result of any religious convictions.

When deciding whether a christening is right for you, bear in mind that you will be expected to make vows in the ceremony, which like wedding vows, are meant to be upheld.

Thanksgiving Service or Blessing Service

This was initiated by the Church of England in 1999. It suits people who still want a religious ceremony offering thanks to God for the gift of the child or getting their child blessed by the church, but without making a full commitment of baptism into the faith. If you’re not a regular churchgoer and but you still want a religious ceremony, this might be the option for you.

The ceremony usually forms part of a regular service. Thanks for the child is given and the child is blessed. Godparents are not elected but Supporting Adults can be named who will play a similar role. If the parents or child want to opt to hold a full baptism at a later date, they can.

Naming Ceremony

These non-religious ceremonies have grown in popularity over recent years. They suit parents who want a formal celebration with limited or no religious content, similar to civil weddings.

During a naming ceremony parents and elected ‘special or supporting adults’ make promises of commitment to the child. The ceremony is usually officiated by a celebrant but can be performed by a friend or relative. Vows and promises can be personalised and grandparents can also be included in the promise-making. Parents can include non- religious readings or poems if desired.

There is greater flexibility as to where the ceremony can be held, and some can even take place at home. The ceremony script and celebrant services are offered by a number of organizations including:

After the Ceremony

Regardless of whether you have a religious or non-religious ceremony, a baby ceremony usually ends with a social get together either at your home or at another suitable venue. They can be as simple as tea and cake or a full sit down meal. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your baby to family and friends in a more relaxed environment.

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How to Capture Memorable Religious Christening Videos

Written by Andy Ross

Christening is an important occasion meant to baptize a young member in the family. Needless to say, christening corresponds to a very important moments in the life of every Christian individual. The one moment that he/she would want to share with close friends and relatives. Capturing and preserving these moments for lifetime is one of the many preparations that you, as the father/mother, might make for this occasion.

Here are few tips to help you freeze those priceless moments of life.

Choose the Right ‘hand'

First of all, you need to select right person to do the job for you - especially since you'd be busy attending to other guests of the occasion. You can select a skilled video shooter from your locality or Christian social network to ensure quality outputs. Make sure you choose a person, who is capable to take up the responsibility of recording every moment and has no other role in the ceremony.

Another good idea would be to hire a professional who has experience of covering such ceremonies. The professional, in addition to knowing the technical essentials, would also be familiar with the customs and hence the essentials angles and moments to capture.

Some Points to Consider

- The venue must be selected carefully to avoid congestion, as it will degrade the worth of christening video.

- Make suitable lighting arrangements, so that it can contribute towards a wonderful video.

- Ask the lens man to capture every inch of the decoration and record the presence of all your Christian friends and guests in the ceremony.

- Of course, the young one on the route to be baptized is the star of the evening and hence must be given the maximum space in the video.

Sharing the Christening Videos

It is a good idea to share the christening video with all your friends and relatives. A simple and good idea would be to use Christian social networks online, which allow you to share your favorite videos. So, you can add these videos to your profile and share it easily with your near and dear ones.

Religious christening videos help you to add value to the treasure of your baby's childhood memories. These videos are no less than wonderful gifts for your child to cherish, as he or she grows up.

Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com

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Baptism – a Ceremony to Cherish

Baptism or christening is one ceremony that parents of the child cherish in their hearts forever. This ceremony encompasses giving the child a formal name. Apart from its religious significance, the baptism ceremony formally heralds the journey of life of the child in the material world. All this while, mothers are mostly reminded of their painful pregnancy period, but now they thank God for having blessed them with the babies.

The Celebratory Spirit:

The baby christening ceremonies are organized with great fervor and are pretty similar to baby showers or welcomes showers. Decorations for these events are akin to those seen in showers. Aside from religious elements, the atmosphere has a spirit of celebration. The guests join the new parents to celebrate and share the joy of the baby’s arrival. Just like baby showers, it is customary for the guests to bring different types of baby items in form of gifts. Though gifts in baptism ceremonies are predominantly baby toys, you do not need to break your head thinking about the gifts to take to christening ceremony. The ideas for such baby gifts can be found in abundance on various sites on the Internet.

Location for baptism ceremonies is usually a church or the parents’ household. After the religious rites are over, it is conventional to treat the guests with snacks or dinner. It is also a part of the ceremony to give return gifts or favors to the guests before they leave. This is a way of expressing love and gratitude for their participation. The best way to locate great favors is again to take help of Internet. You can even buy the favors online without physically visiting the stores.

The Souvenirs Of The Day:

Baptism ceremonies are extra-special for the parents especially the mothers. They linger long in their minds. They always wish to have christening keepsakes or souvenirs of these ceremonies. Generally, the baby’s outfit on the day of ceremony serves as a keepsake. Accessories like baby bracelet, brooches, little hats, shoes, etc. also make popular keepsakes.

Baptism or christening is a religious ceremony but, with time, it has acquired a festive color. In fact, religion has taken a back seat as far as modern christening ceremonies are concerned. People continue to organize these ceremonies due to poignant reasons. They love to celebrate their parenthood and of course giving their baby a name. These are the reasons that baptism is so popular even with new generation.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/baptism-a-ceremony-to-cherish-300040.html

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Bible Quotes for Christening/Baptism

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Romans 6:3

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4

Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Colossians 2:12

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16:16

And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the  Lord.Acts 22:16

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38

Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Acts 8:13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41

And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. John 3:23

Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Mark 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, Matthew 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Matthew 3:4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Matthew 3:5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, Matthew 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

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Choosing And Writing A Baptism Thank You Card

Choosing and writing a Baptism Thank You card has never been more difficult. The days of the plain baptism thank you card are numbered. They've been overtaken by an array of colorful, and personalized cards that help us show appreciation for the kindness shared on our baby's special day.

Now you can, if you choose have your own photograph of baby immortalized on individual Baptism Thank You cards. Various companies allow you to add Baptism details along with a choice of other embellishments.

Personalized cards though aren't everyone's choice. Some of us still resort to the old-fashioned' pen and paper letter writing route. Whilst this of course is still a great option, you may like to choose some special textured paper on which to share your gratitude for gifts received. It's a joy to write on special paper, especially as it is paper selected especially for this one occasion.

Don't forget to buy sufficient paper and matching envelopes for your needs. Some of us write 'large' so you may find yourself using two sheets. That's even more likely if you chose small sized paper.

If you've a creative streak you may prefer to make your own special handmade thank you cards. This would really give you a chance to be inventive. If you've got the time, this is a great idea. You could personalize some bought cards with your own touch of ribbon or bow etc.

Thank you cards for baby's Baptism or Naming Day may be one time when you want to 'push the boat out'. What kind of special card could you choose or create that would help you celebrate the day?

The event is certainly a notable one in yours, your baby's, and the larger family group's memory. Marking the occasion with some well-chosen cards will be something that you can all look back on in the years to come.

It's worth spending a bit of time looking around at what's available so as not to limit your options. Don't be tempted to rush for the bog standard' off-the-shelf pre-package, unless that of course suits your budget, and your emotions. Think about the part the thank you card plays in rounding off' the special event in your lives.

Whilst it is you the parent writing the cards, you do so on behalf of your little one. As such, you're building his/her relationship with those who have given gifts. Baptism Thank You Card wording is equally important.

As you're building his/her standing within your family community, your choice of the right Baptism - or Christening Thank You Card (as it's also known) is worth a longer look.

Once you've got your card, choosing the appropriate Baptism Thank You Card wording can often prove a challenge. This is especially so for first time parents keen to do things right'.

Religious etiquette suggests that baptism thank you cards should be sent no more than two weeks after the ceremony or service. As it's customary to give gifts on these important occasions you may have a number of thank you cards to write.

If you haven't already done so, it's a good idea to make a list of who has given you what. That way you can be specific and personal in thanking people for their kind thoughts and presents.

Mention the gift itself, how you and your baby are enjoying it and using it, or how they will use it in the future (if it is a gift for a later stage in life). You may mention how lovely it was to see them at the baptism itself if they were able to attend.

Those who haven't chosen personalized photo card often attach a photo to their card or letter.

If you have some idea how much you might write before hand then this could affect the size of card you choose. Your handwriting may be exuberant and large, requiring more space than someone who writes small. Thinking about this early on is always a good idea.

Finally, when you sign off, add all your names, you, your partner's and of course baby's. Everyone loves to see baby's name on the card, and as proud parents, it gives you another chance to write baby's name!

It's also wise to order your Baptism Thank You cards or Christening Thank you Cards along with the Birth Announcement and Baptism Cards to ensure a continuity of design style.

 Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

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Christenings – Gifts, Etiquette And History Explained

Submitted By: James T Wilson

Whether you're planning a Christening yourself, attending a Christening or just want to find out a bit more about the options available to you then hopefully this section of the website will help.

There are two types of ceremonies available; religious and non-religious. Irrespective of which type is chosen, the common theme throughout is love and surrounding the child with family and friends in order to celebrate the child’s birth and life ahead.

Religious Ceremonies:

A Christening is the child’s first initiation into the religious faith. At a Catholic Christening, the parents make their declarations, the baby is baptized with holy water, and a lit candle representing Jesus as the light of the world, is given to the parents and Godparents. The priest may ask the parents to attend preparation classes to fully understand the significance of a baptism. Catholic Christenings are often held as a separate service for one or more child, without hymns and lasts approximately 30 minutes.

In a Church of England Christening, the Christening takes place within the main Sunday church service and the baby is taken to the font, sprinkled with holy water, and the Godparents and parents promise God they will bring the child up in the Christian faith.

If you decide to go for a Christening, you need to speak to the vicar at your local church. They will explain the service, and may ask questions concerning your own faith, and that of the godparents. You will then be able to book a date.

Secular (Non-Religious) Ceremonies:

There are a range of non-religious celebrations to choose from including a Baby-Naming Ceremony, Welcoming or Thanksgiving. These options are free of any commitment to the Christian faith. A British Humanist Association ceremony can take place anywhere you like. A trained, licensed celebrant will help you to create a unique and personal occasion. They can provide templates for ceremonies that you can adapt for your own situation, and they can suggest readings, poetry or music. You can include contributions from family/friends, and finish it all off with a tea or buffet. These ceremonies last on average 20 minutes.

Christenings are generally held within the first year of a baby's life, although some parents wait until the child is a little older.

Generally, photography is welcome during all types of ceremonies but it may be worth checking with the person presiding first as the congregation or gathering is likely to be invited to photograph the child, family and Godparents at specific points during the ceremony. Of course there can also be photographs before and after.

The child will usually be dressed in a special Christening outfit/gown or family heirloom garment. Women would be expected to dress smartly - hats are not necessary, and for men, suits or smart shirt and trousers. Ties are often not a necessity, particularly for summer ceremonies though if you are the father or Godfather, you would be expected to dress in a suit.

Usually following the ceremony a buffet or tea is held at the parent’s house. The child will be shown off to all the family and friends, and Christening gifts are generally presented to the child. After the buffet, the official cake may be cut, and at this point, some people choose to plant a tree or dedicate a plant which will grow with the child.

Role of the Godparents:

There are usually three Godparents - two the same sex as the child. The role of the Godparent comes from the days when converts to the early Christian church were usually adults whose parents were not Christians. The Godparents role was to provide a Christian mentor to help them through life. People also link the role of the Godparent with that of becoming 'legal guardian' should the child ever be orphaned. However, this would need to be written into a will with the permission of the Godparents themselves. Non-religious participants usually engage a 'mentor' who will watch over the child and steer them through life with help, care and advice. Generally Godparents are chosen for their own Christian beliefs but also because they are very close friends of the parents, or family members. Godparents or guardians should be people who are going to be around to offer support for the child if needed.

Christening Gifts:

Many people prefer a traditional gift idea for a Christening such as pewter, silver or china; these are great gifts for the child to treasure. Another nice idea is to provide a photo album or keepsake box to store precious memories of the child’s special day. For religious ceremonies it is common for a silver cross and chain or a bible to be presented to the child. Personalized gifts also make very nice ideas for this occasion, for example a framed name print, or a personalized Christening plate or mug, or perhaps an engraved tankard or cufflinks for a boy.

About the Author

James T Wilson runs a website http://www.borngifted.co.uk/baby-gifts/main which specializes in Christening and Baptism gifts.

 www.christeningessentials.com

Christening Gowns and Their Fashion Background

Up until the 17th century young babies were wrapped in tight
Swaddling clothes carried to the font in a bearing cloth.
This was a large square of lavishly trimmed silk.
Mid 18th century it evolved to a front opening robe fastened
with ribbon ties showing a petticoat beneath.
The first Christening robes were made in the style worn
every day by 18th century children.
Both boy and girl children wore slip dresses, with a very
long flowing skirt falling from a short, tucked bodice,
low neck and short sleeves. This fashion has remained
popular for Christening ever since.
Partly due to the tradition of handing down these robes from
one generation to the next.
Large families were popular in the Victorian era and a
mother might make one very beautiful gown while she had
the time while waiting the arrival of her first born child.
Although many women had access to a sewing machine
in mid Victorian England the gown, being small and compact,
would often be entirely handmade and could be easily moved
around, from room to room in the young mother's needlework
bag. Once used and admired along with the new baby;
it would be carefully packed away awaiting the next birth.
As a result would become a family heirloom.
Mid 19th century christening gowns were decorated
with fine white embroidery known as Ayrshire work.
This consisted of embroidery worked with extra
needlework fillings and cutwork. This white on white
originated in the Scottish lowlands. When the bodice
came down to the front in a point; with tradition the
point was kept on the outside however when used
for a girl the point would be tucked in when christened.
Mid to late Victorian era christening gown skirts were
lavishly ornamented with pin tucking and lace insertions
with embroided bodices and the baby always topped
with a bonnet.
Very special christening attire ensured that any baby
wearing the best looked picture  perfect for the occasion
and the event of having a family photograph taken
to record the day.
Christening gowns are one of the few pieces of costume
history that has survived across a broad range of
society because they launder well, are small
enough to store easily, and have continued use to
another baby!  

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  Poems and Readings for a Christening or Naming Ceremony

Most of the following poems and readings could be used for either a christening or naming ceremony, although some celebrants do not permit references to God in a naming ceremony.  If in doubt speak to the priest or celebrant about your choice of readings. 

Being Parents Children Learn what they Live

If children live with criticism,
They learn to condemn;
If children live with hostility,
They learn how to fight;
If children live with ridicule,
They learn to be shy;
If children live with shame,
They learn to feel guilty;

If children live with tolerance,
They learn to be patient;
If children live with encouragement,
They learn to have confidence;
If children live with praise,
They learn to appreciate;
If children live with fairness,
They learn justice;
If children live with security,
They learn to have faith;
If children live with approval,
They learn to like themselves;
If children live with love around them,
They learn to give love to the world.

Dorothy Law Nolte

    On Children 

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children
as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let our bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Kahlil Gibran

Footprints

“Walk a little slower Daddy” said a child so small
“I’m following in your footsteps and I don’t want to fall.

Sometimes your steps are very fast,
Sometimes they’re hard to see;
So walk a little slower Daddy,
For you are leading me.

Someday when I’m all grown up,
You’re what I want to be;
Then I will have a little child
Who’ll want to follow me.

And I would want to lead just right,
And know that I was true;
So walk a little slower Daddy,
For I must follow you.

Anon

A Mother’s Wish

I hope my child looks back on today
And sees a mother who had time to play.
There will be years for cleaning and cooking,
But children grow up when you’re not looking.
Tomorrow I’ll do all the chores you can mention
But today, my baby needs time and attention.
So settle down cobwebs; dust go to sleep,
I’m cuddling my baby, and babies don’t keep.

Anon

A Poem For Parents

There are little eyes upon you,
And they are watching night and day;
There are little ears that quickly
Take in every word you say.

There are little hands all eager
To do everything you do;
and a little boy who's dreaming
Of the day he'll be like you.

You're the little fellow's idol;
You're the wisest of the wise;
In his little mind, about you
No suspicions ever rise.

He believes in you devotedly,
Holds that all you say and do,
He will say and do in your way
When he's grown up like you.

There's a wide-eyed little fellow
Who believes you're always right;
And his ears are always open,
And he watches day and night.

You are setting an example
Every day in all you do;
For the little boy who's waiting
To grow up to be just like you.

Author Unknown

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Religious Ceremonial Outfits

Christening and baptism, bris and naming: each tradition has a long history of symbolism and significance. At Christening Essentials, we know that children's religious ceremonial outfits add meaning and beauty to these important occasions. To help you in your apparel search, we've provided these brief descriptions of the different types of children's religious ceremonial outfits you'll find at our site.

Christening and Baptism

White christening gowns were for many years a tradition for both girls and boys. However, modern christening clothes and baptism outfits are more gender oriented.

For baby girls, white christening gowns and christening dresses remain the standard. Girls christening gowns are typically very ornate, with a great deal of lace, trim, and detail. Many baptismal dresses are completed with a matching bonnet.

Boys christening outfits take many forms. Rompers, vests, and one-piece christening outfits are all common, as are christening suits and tuxedos. White is still the standard christening attire color for boys.

Bris and Naming

For the Jewish ceremony of Bris, Bris gowns or Bris sets with a matching yarmulke are worn. The back closure of a Bris gown should offer easy access. White is the common but not exclusive color.

A naming set for a baby daughter typically includes a white or dress, panties, hat, and booties.

Special Occasion

Many of the children's religious ceremonial outfits you'll find at Christening Essentials can also be worn for other special occasions, such as weddings or holiday celebrations. Whatever occasion is being celebrated, we recommend adding a preservation bag to your purchase so you can keep your child's outfit as a lasting memory.

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The Brit Milah (Hebrew), also Bris (Yiddish) is a ceremony traditionally practiced in Judaism which welcomes baby boys into the covenant. This is a ritual circumcision performed in the presence of family and friends in a ceremonial manner, followed by a celebratory meal. Baby girls were traditionally welcomed with a smaller and more private naming ceremony.

The Purpose of the Brit Milah

Jews believe that the commandment to circumcise one's male children was to formalize a covenant between Jews and God. Most Jews claim that circumcision is religiously necessary because of its biblical prescription. According to the Bible, circumcision was enjoined upon the biblical patriarch Abraham and his descendants as "a token of the covenant" concluded with him by God for all generations. The penalty of non-observance was karet, excision from the people (Gen. 17:10-14, 21:4; Lev. 12:3). Non-Israelites had to undergo circumcision before they could be allowed to partake of the feast of Passover (Ex. 12:48), or marry into a Jewish family (Gen. 34:14-16).

According to the Bible, it was "a reproach" for an Israelite to be uncircumcised (Josh. 5:9.) The name arelim (uncircumcised) became an opprobrious term, denoting the Philistines and other non-Israelites (I Sam. 14:6, 31:4; II Sam. i. 20) and used synonymously with tame (unclean) for heathen (Isa. 52:1). The word 'arel' (uncircumcised) is also employed for "unclean" (Lev. xxvi. 41, "their uncircumcised hearts"; compare Jer. ix. 25; Ezek. xliv. 7, 9); it is even applied to the first three years' fruit of a tree, which is forbidden (Lev. xix. 23).

However, the Israelites born in the wilderness after the exodus from Egypt reportedly did not practice circumcision. As recorded in Josh. 5:2-9, "all the people that came out" of Egypt were circumcised, but those "born in the wilderness" were not. Therefore Joshua, before the celebration of the Passover, had them circumcised at Gilgal.

Deut. x. 16 (compare ib. xxx. 6 and Jer. iv. 4) says, "Circumcise the foreskin of your heart," thus giving the rite a spiritual meaning; circumcision as a physical act being enjoined nowhere in the whole book. Jer. ix. 25, 26 says that circumcised and uncircumcised will be punished alike by the Lord; for "all the nations are uncircumcised, and all the house of Israel are uncircumcised in heart."

Evolution of Brit Milah

The original form of circumcision practiced by Jews was more minimal than the form performed today. This rite, milah, initially consisted of cutting off only the tip of the foreskin, the floppy part that extends past the glans in the normal male infant. Two thousand years ago, Jewish hellenists, wanting to assimilate into Greek society, obliterated the sign of their "tip" circumcisions. Most of their foreskins were still intact, so they found ways to lengthen them, to make it look as if they had not been circumcised at all. This practice was unacceptable to the Jewish community at large; the community responded by changing the circumcision rite to remove all of the foreskin. Babies circumcised in this manner could not later hide the fact that they were Jewish.

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