What's the difference between christening and baptism? Do you have to have Godparents? These and other vital questions answered here in Christening Celebration Basics.

Bringing Up Baby

The purpose of a christening (or the more modern term, baptism) is providing a symbol that you want to bring your child up in the eyes of God, and will try to provide them with Christian beliefs to the best of your abilities. The water represents a fresh start after having been born into human sin. Usually, the parents must be members of the church where the baptism takes place, but in many churches it's not mandatory. Check with your houses of worship in your area if you are not an active member for their standards and baptism regulations.

Dogma

Recently, dramatic changes in the Church have allowed the rules to loosen concerning who can and cannot be baptized. Once, a baby had to have two heterosexual parents that were married to each other and belonged to (and had been baptized in) the church in order to be baptized. Not so anymore. Many churches have become more liberal to allow single parents, same-sex unions, and non-members to participate in modern christenings as well. If you are a non-traditional family who wishes your baby to be baptized, investigate your options if you want to raise your child in the Christian faith.

Godparents

Another beautiful tradition included in Christening is assigning three or four people as "Godparents", or close friends or family who promise to help the parents bring up the child in Christianity. As with the other "rules", Godparents in many churches are no longer a necessary part of the Christening, although it is recommended - since all parents need some help.

When To Baptize

There is usually no age limit on when a baby should be baptized. Again, check with your local church to see if they have suggestions as an approximate appropriate age.

The Celebration

After the religious ceremony is finished, many times the family and close friends go out for lunch, or there is a reception of some sort at the family's home. Gifts for the baby are appropriate but by no means required.