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Christening Etiquette
Godparents Etiquette
Through history the selection of godparents is a very important duty and the office of the godfather and the godmother is actual rather than theoretical; but in recent years it has a tendency to become a mere
form. This should not be the case, for it a high tribute to a friend to ask him to be the godfather of one’s child and it is often an excellent thing for the child. It assures the child at least one
older friend who has a very special interest in the child’s welfare.
There may be four sponsors but are usually there are only two, a godfather and godmother.
Whenever possible there should be asked in person and they should never be asked in writing. For the sponsors are always intimate friends of the mother and father or relatives for whom they feel the highest regard. It is the interest of the child that is at stake and this should be taken into consideration by the parents before they make their final selection.
The duties of the godparents are not onerous. They promise always to befriend the child and at the time of the christening they present it with a gift of some sort – jewelry, clothing, carriage, etc. They
are present at the baptism if possible, and accompany the mother and the father to the altar. The father and godfather have little to do beyond lending the grace of their presence to the occasion. The
godmother carries the infant to the altar, resplendent in his/her christening gown or outfit, and at the proper time hands it to the clergyman. If there are no godparents the duties of the godmother my filled by the
mother.
Traditional Christening Etiquette
Announcing the birth of the child
When a child is born the mother and the father announce the fact to their friends by of cards.
These may be obtained in the prevailing style from any good stationer...more
Responding the birth announcement
Friends of the parents, will of course, hasten to congratulate them upon their good fortune. They may send a gift
to the mother and the youngster - some little article pleasing because of its beauty and or its utility...more
Godparents
Through history the selection of godparents is a very important duty and the office of the godfather and the godmother is actual rather than
theoretical...more
Invitations to the Christening
If the christening is to be an occasion of great formality and elaboration the church should be decorated...more
A Church Christening
The christening is rarely an elaborate affair and the only guests are relatives and close friends...more
The House Christening
There is very little difference between a christening that takes place at home and one at church...more
After the Baptism
After the ceremony is over and the youngster has been duly admired and sent back to the nursery, there may be a reception or tea or even a dinner or
breakfast...more
Etiquette for Christening Gifts
Each person who is invite to the christening is expected to remember the infant with a gift of some sort...more
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