How are the christening of the child in the church. How to baptize a baby? Baptism of a child
“…Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God…” (John 3:5).
“... Whoever has faith and is baptized, he will be saved: and whoever does not have faith, he will be condemned ...” (Mark 16:16)
The sacraments of the Church are a Divine institution, and the Lord Himself performs them. A sacrament is such a sacred act in which visible signs and symbols secretly (in an incomprehensible way) give a person the grace of the Holy Spirit, or the saving power of God.
The very word "sacrament" indicates that it is not subject to examination by the mind, but is accepted by the believing heart.
The Sacrament of Baptism serves as the door to the Church of Christ: only a person who has received Baptism can become a member of the Church, and therefore this Sacrament is also called "spiritual birth." For an unbaptized person, the gates of paradise are closed. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself said to His disciples: “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. (John 3.5) - And before ascending to heaven he blessed them, - So, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit ... ”(Mt 28, 19).
The Sacrament of Baptism consists of the consecration of water and oil, the anointing with consecrated oil, and the subsequent, most important sacrament, the threefold immersion of the person being baptized in water with the words: “The servant of God (his name) is baptized in the name of the Father. Amen. And the Son. Amen. And the Holy Spirit. Amen". Since ancient times, water has been a symbol of purification, and immersion in it is a symbol of repentance. The consecrated oil, which during the Sacrament is first anointed with water, and then baptized, is a symbol of healing and health, reconciliation and peace. Candles depict the light of the right faith; censer - the fragrance of the Holy Spirit. The white clothes of the newly baptized - the new life or soul of a Christian freed from the power of sin and Satan, which he must keep unspotted; and, finally, the pectoral cross - the cross following of Christ and a sign of faith in His victory.
Requirements for participants in the Sacrament of Infant Baptism
Infants cannot consciously begin the Sacrament of Baptism, therefore the baptism of children is performed according to the faith of parents and godparents, who become full participants in this Sacrament along with babies.
Only baptized people of the Orthodox faith who have not fallen away from church communion are allowed to the Sacraments of the Church. Falling away from the Church occurs not only as a result of the commission of grave (mortal) sins, but also in cases where people have not approached the Sacraments of Holy Communion and Repentance for a sufficiently long time. Did not Communion - in fact, did not want to have parts with God. “Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink His Blood, you will not have life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:53-54). Therefore, before participating in the Sacrament of Baptism, such people who have fallen away from church communion must be reunited with the Church through repentance. In the Sacrament of Confession, a person receives forgiveness for his sins and is reunited with the Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. It should be noted here that Repentance implies not only a listing of the sins committed, but also a firm decision to change one's life. In Greek, repentance sounds like "metanoia", which literally translates as "change of mind." A change of mind is an awareness of the opposite of your current state and a desire to be reborn, a desire to change for the better, which excludes a formal relationship to this Sacrament.
These preparatory requirements apply not only to the child's natural parents (in extreme cases, to one of them), but also to the godparents. In addition, those approaching the Sacraments of the Church, of course, must know the basics of the Orthodox faith: what he believes in and in whom he trusts. Therefore, at a minimum, it is necessary to understand well the interpretation of the Creed and read at least one Gospel (for example, from Mark).
Baptism of infants without the preparation of parents is permissible only "for fear of death", i.e. in case of a threat to the life of the child (serious illness, urgent complex operation).
If you live a full-fledged church life and entered the Sacrament of Holy Communion no later than a year ago, then immediately before the baptism of an infant, it is not necessary to confess and receive communion.
The rite preceding baptism is the reading of a cleansing prayer over mothers
During the first forty days after the birth of a child, the mother “according to the ordinary law of natural purification”, which is for her like a seal of the original curse on a woman, is forbidden to enter the temple. On the fortieth day, the mother stands at the entrance to the temple, holding the baby in her arms, ready to bring him and her motherhood to God. In her prayers, the Church unites two motherhoods: the human motherhood and the motherhood of the Most Pure Virgin, who gave birth to the true Lawgiver. Prayer fills human motherhood with unique joy and fullness of the Divine Motherhood of Mary. The Child, whom She carried and with whom, as a Mother, she was completely united, filled Her with grace. Now this grace fills the Church, and every mother who brings her child to God receives it.
What happens during a baptism?
The word "baptism" means "immersion". The main action of baptism is the threefold immersion of the person being baptized in water, which symbolizes the three-day stay of Christ in the tomb, after which the Resurrection took place.
Everyone who is baptized follows the path of Christ. Just as Christ died on the Cross as a sacrifice for our sins, in the sacrament of baptism we die to a sinful life and to do the will of Satan, so that we can then be resurrected to life with God. Our whole being is thus renewed to its very foundations. We are left with all our sins, in which we sincerely repented.
If a baby is baptized, then he must have godparents, whose duties include the Christian upbringing of their godchildren. For them, they will give a strict answer at the Judgment of God. The one who agreed to become a godfather must realize that he takes on a huge responsibility for the child, and if he is negligent in fulfilling his duties, he will be severely punished.
In order to give a child a Christian upbringing, the godparents themselves must live a Christian life, pray for their godson.
Godparents - godparents
The custom of having godparents at Baptism goes back to ancient Apostolic Tradition. The Greek word "anadechomenos" (successor) also has the meaning "guarantor for the debtor." St. John Chrysostom, in one of his catechumens, explains the role of sponsors in the following way: “If you wish, let us also turn the word to your godparents, so that they can also see what reward they will receive if they show great zeal for you, and, on the contrary, what condemnation will follow them if they fall into carelessness. Think, beloved, of those who have accepted the surety of money, that they are in greater danger than the debtor who has taken the money. For if the debtor appears prudent, then the surety will lighten the burden; if he becomes unreasonable, then he will be in great danger. Therefore, a certain sage instructs, saying: “If you guarantee, take care, as one who is obliged to pay” (Sir. 8, 16). If those who have taken the guarantee of money consider themselves responsible, then how much more should those who are involved in the spiritual, those who have taken the guarantee of virtue, show great concern, convincing, advising, correcting, showing fatherly love. And let them not think that what is happening does not matter to them, but let them know for sure that they too will become partners in glory if by their instructions they lead those who are being taught to the path of virtue; but if they fall into idleness, there will be much condemnation for them. For this is why it is customary to call them spiritual fathers, so that they learn by their own deeds what kind of love they should show in spiritual instruction. And if it is commendable to bring to zeal for virtue those who are by no means relatives, then how much more should we fulfill the prescribed in relation to the one whom we accept as a spiritual child. Now you, godparents, have also learned that you are in great danger if you fall into carelessness.
Parents need to remember that in deciding to baptize a child, they must add a conscious promise to God to raise him in the right way. Orthodox Church. But, in addition to their obligation, the obligation of godparents is also required. It is expressed in the baptismal vow of the godparents for the baby before God and the Church: "I deny Satan, unite myself with Christ." Therefore, when baptizing an infant, special attention should be paid to the godparents and their faith.
In general, only one recipient is considered necessary: a man for a male person to be baptized, or a woman for a female person. But, according to tradition, there are two recipients: a man and a woman.
During the baptism of infants, the recipients hold their godchildren in their arms throughout the Sacrament. It is preferable that the godfather holds the boy and the godmother holds the girl, but if this is difficult, then you can keep it in turn. After three times the baby is immersed in the font, he is transferred to the hands of the godfather or godmother (depending on the gender of the baptized). It is precisely because, after immersion in the font, the godfather (s) takes the baby from the hands of the priest, and the Slavic name of the recipient has gone. Thus, for the rest of his life, he takes upon himself the obligation to educate the child in the Orthodox spirit, and he will give an answer for this upbringing at the Last Judgment. Godparents try to teach their godchildren faith and piety, introduce them to the Sacraments of the Orthodox Church and pray for them until the end of their days.
Often people are not serious about choosing godparents for their child. The vast majority of godparents do not meet the minimum requirements of the Church: they do not know a single prayer, they have not read the Gospel, they do not know how to cross themselves correctly, they do not wear a cross. Such a recipient will become only a formal godfather for the child, although the Church places great responsibility on him for the spiritual upbringing of the newly baptized.
It is absolutely unacceptable that people who have fallen away from the Church as a result of grave (mortal) sins become godparents. (The most “common” of them are fornication (carnal intimacy of men and women without concluding a legal marriage), adultery (treason to a husband, wife), abortion (murder of one’s own children), for which a man shares responsibility. Also, a grave sin is betrayal of the Lord God through turning to other religions, sects, spiritual healers, psychics, sorcerers, soothsayers, astrologers, etc.). Before participating in the Sacraments of the Church, such people must be reunited with the Church through repentance in the Sacrament of Confession.
This applies not only to godparents, but also to parents. For those who are not churched, confession is obligatory!
You need to understand that parents should choose godparents depending on the spiritual qualities that they want to see in their child in the future. Therefore, it is necessary to ask to become godparents precisely those people who meet these qualities. Parents also need to remember that by offering other people to be godparents, they impose on them a great responsibility regarding the upbringing of the child in the Orthodox faith.
Therefore, before you offer someone to become the godparents of your child, you need to determine for yourself: can this person to bear such a responsibility, would it not be an extra sin, for which one will have to answer at the Last Judgment.
Despite the fact that the godparents are responsible before God for the upbringing of their godchildren, parents bear full responsibility for the spiritual, mental and physical development of their children, and the godparents are only assistants in this.
Subsequently, upon reaching the child of conscious age, the recipient must explain to him the basics Orthodox faith, lead him to Communion and take care of his moral and spiritual condition. This once again shows that it is necessary to choose godparents from people who are baptized and Orthodox believers, who are familiar with the content of Holy Scripture, who live the Church life in its Sacraments.
It is desirable that some time before the baptism of the child, the godparents confess and take communion.
It is desirable that children be removed from participation in the Sacrament of Baptism as godparents, since they themselves still know too little and cannot be true educators of their godson. Monks and nuns are not allowed to receive children, nor can parents be parents of their own children.
In spiritual kinship, marriage is prohibited between the recipients and those who were received in the Sacrament of Baptism, as well as with the parents of those who were accepted. That is, the godfather and godmother cannot marry either godchildren or goddaughters, or their blood relatives fathers and mothers. The recipient and the recipient (godfather and mother of the same person being baptized) may be married to each other.
Chin of announcement
The performance of baptism is preceded by the rite of pronouncement, during which the priest reads prohibition prayers directed against Satan.
The priest blows crosswise on the person being baptized three times, saying the words: “cast out from him (or from her) every evil and unclean spirit hidden and nesting in his heart ...”. They are a reminder that "the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul" (Gen. 2.7). Then he blesses three times and, laying his hand on the head of the baptized, reads a prayer. The hand of the clergyman is the hand of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, which is a gesture of protection and blessing, for in the future this person will face a mortal battle with the forces of darkness.
Three Prohibitions on Unclean Spirits
The Church tells us about the rebellion against God in the spiritual world created by Him of a part of the angels, possessed by pride. And the source of evil lies not in their ignorance and imperfection, but, on the contrary, in those knowledge and perfection that led them to the temptation of pride and falling away. Satan belonged to the very first and best creations of God. He was perfect, wise, and strong enough to know the Lord and disobey Him, to rebel against Him, to desire "freedom" from Him. But since such “freedom” (i.e., arbitrariness) is impossible in the Kingdom of Divine Harmony, which exists only with voluntary consent to the Will of God, Satan and his angels are expelled by God from this Kingdom.
That is why, at baptism, the prohibition of “Satan and all his Aggels” is first performed. St. Cyril of Jerusalem says in the catechetical teaching: “The content of these prohibitions is as follows: first, it cuts off and drives the devil and all his actions with Divine names and sacraments that are terrible for him, driving out the devil, commands his demons to flee from a person and not create misfortunes for him. Similarly, the second prohibition casts out demons with the Divine Name. The third prohibition is together with a prayer offered to God, imploring to completely expel the evil spirit from the creation of God and confirm him in the faith.
Renunciation of Satan
The person being baptized (or godparents, if an infant is being baptized) renounces Satan, i.e., renounces sinful habits and lifestyle, renounces pride and self-affirmation, realizing that an unbaptized person is always a prisoner of passions, Satan.
Confession of fidelity to Christ
However, man himself can never wage war with the devil without an alliance with Christ. Therefore, after the declaration of war on Satan, in the rank of announcement, a combination with Christ follows.
The child becomes a member of Christ's host. His weapons will be fasting, prayer, participation in church sacraments. He has to fight with his sinful passions - the evil that lies in his heart.
The baptized confesses the faith, reads the Creed. If an infant is baptized, then the recipient must read the Symbol of Faith for him.
SYMBOL OF FAITH
1 I believe in one God the Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible.
2And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only Begotten, who was born of the Father before all ages; Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, Whom all was.
3 For the sake of us, man, and our sake, for the sake of salvation, who descended from heaven, and became incarnate from the Holy Spirit and Mary the Virgin, and became human.
4 He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered, and was buried.
5And he rose again on the third day according to the Scriptures.
6 And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father.
7And the packs of the one to come with glory to be judged by the living and the dead, whose kingdom will have no end.
8And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of Life, Who proceeds from the Father, Who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets.
9Into one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
10I confess one baptism for the remission of sins.
11I look forward to the resurrection of the dead,
12and the life of the age to come. Amen.
The creed contains all the basic Christian truths. In ancient times, a person had to study them before baptism. And now this is a necessary condition for baptism. If a person does not agree even in the slightest with the Creed, i.e. does not have the proper faith, then he cannot personally proceed to the Sacrament of Baptism and even baptize his own children. What will he teach them? The responsibility for teaching the truths of faith to infants rests with their godparents and, if they forget this, they commit a grave sin. A detailed interpretation of the Creed can be found in any book of the Law of God.
Since apostolic times, Christians have used "creeds" to remind themselves of the basic truths of the Christian faith. IN ancient church there were several brief creeds. In the 4th century, when false teachings about God the Son and the Holy Spirit appeared, it became necessary to supplement and clarify the old symbols. Thus arose the Creed now used by the Orthodox Church. It was compiled by the Fathers of the First and Second Ecumenical Councils. I Ecumenical Council accepted seven members of the Creed, II - the remaining five. The First Ecumenical Council was held in 325 A.D. in Nicaea to approve true doctrine about the Son of God against the false teaching of Arius that the Son of God was created by God the Father. II Ecumenical Council - in Constantinople in 381 to affirm the true teaching about the Holy Spirit against the false teaching of Macedonia, which rejected the divine dignity of the Holy Spirit. When studying, the Symbol is divided into 12 members. The first one speaks of God the Father, then up to the seventh inclusive - about God the Son, in the eighth - about God the Holy Spirit, in the ninth - about the Church, in the tenth - about baptism, in the eleventh - about the resurrection of the dead, in the twelfth - about eternal life.
Sacrament of Baptism
Consecration of water
At the beginning of the Sacrament of Baptism itself, the priest performs incense around the font and reads prayers for the blessing of water, then blesses the water in which the person being baptized will have to wash their sins. He overshadows her three times with the sign of the cross, blows on her, saying a prayer: “Let all the opposite forces be crushed under the sign of the image of Your Cross.”
The consecration of water for Baptism is one of the most important parts of the service, which has the deepest connection with the sacrament itself.
In prayers and actions during the consecration of water for Baptism, all aspects of the sacrament are revealed, its connection with the world and matter, with life in all its manifestations is shown. Water is the oldest religious symbol. From a Christian point of view, three main aspects of this symbolism seem important. First, water is the primary cosmic element. At the beginning of creation, "the Spirit of God hovered over the waters" (Genesis 1:2). At the same time, it is a symbol of destruction and death. The basis of life, life-giving force and, on the other hand, the basis of death, destructive force - such is the dual image of water in Christian theology. And finally, water is a symbol of purification, rebirth and renewal. This symbolism permeates the entire scripture, is included in the story of creation, the fall and salvation. Saint John the Forerunner called the people to repentance and cleansing from sins in the waters of the Jordan, and the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, having received Baptism from him, sanctified the water element.
Oil consecration
After the consecration of the water, the priest reads a prayer for the consecration of the oil (oil) and the water will be anointed with it. Then the priest anoints the person being baptized with oil: face, chest, arms and legs. IN ancient world oil was used primarily as a remedy. Oil, symbolizing healing, light and joy, was a sign of reconciliation between God and man. The dove, released by Noah from the ark, returned and brought him an olive branch, “and Noah knew that the water had gone down from the earth” (Genesis 8:11). So, in anointing the water and the body of the baptized with oil, the oil signifies the fullness of life and the joy of reconciliation with God, since “in Him was life, and life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it” (John 1:4-5).
Baptism renews and restores the whole person in its original integrity, reconciles soul and body. The oil of joy is anointed on the water and the human body for reconciliation with God and in God with the world.
Immersion in the font
Immediately after the anointing comes the most important moment of baptism - immersion in the font.
The priest immerses the person being baptized three times in water with the words: The servant of God (the name is called) is baptized in the name of the Father, amen (the first immersion). And the Son, amen (second immersion). And the Holy Spirit, amen (third dive). Immediately after immersion, a cross is laid on the newly baptized - a sign of his acceptance of the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ on the cross, faith that Christ truly died and truly rose from the dead, so that in Him we can die for sin in relation to our mortal life and become partakers - here and now, eternal life.
Vestments of the newly baptized
Putting on a “light robe” after Baptism marks, first of all, the return of a person to the integrity and innocence that he possessed in paradise, the restoration of his true nature, distorted by sin. Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, compares these clothes with the shining robes of Christ, who was transfigured on Mount Tabor. The transfigured Christ revealed Himself to the disciples not in a naked form, but in clothes “white as light”, in the uncreated radiance of Divine glory. In the sacrament of Baptism, a person regains his original garment of glory, the believing soul is clearly and really revealed to the basic truth of Christianity: having received Baptism, “you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory” (Col 3:3-4). The deepest mystery is being accomplished: the unity of the human and the Divine in "renewed life." The grace given to a person in Baptism, as in the other sacraments, is the fruit of the sacrificial death of Christ and His Resurrection. She informs a person of the will to salvation and the strength to go through life, carrying his cross. And therefore Baptism can and must be defined not figuratively, not symbolically, but in essence as death and resurrection.
In the Christian understanding, death is, first of all, a spiritual phenomenon. One can be dead while still living on earth, and be innocent of death while lying in the grave. Death is the remoteness of a person from life, that is, from God. The Lord is the only Giver of life and Life Itself. Death is not the opposite of immortality, but true life which was "the light of men" (John 1:4).
Life without God is spiritual death, which transforms human life into loneliness and suffering, fills it with fear and self-deception, turns a person into slavery to sin and malice, emptiness.
We are not saved because we believe in the supernatural power and power of the Lord, because this is not the kind of faith He wants from us. To believe in Christ means not only to acknowledge Him, not only to receive from Him, but, above all, to work for His glory. One cannot expect help from Him without fulfilling His commandments and, above all, the commandments of love; one cannot call Him Lord and bow before Him without doing the will of His Father.
Immersion in water means that the person being baptized dies for a life of sin and is buried with Christ in order to live with Him and in Him (Rom. 6:3-11; Col. 2:12-13). This is the most important thing in the sacrament of Baptism. Only by the grace of God do we know that “this water is truly for us both a tomb and a mother ...” (St. Gregory of Nyssa).
Sacrament of Chrismation
After immersion in the font and dressing in white clothes, the priest will anoint the newly enlightened with the holy Myrrh: imprinting "the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Through chrismation, the Holy Spirit descends on each of us, filling us with the power of God, just as once on the day of Pentecost he descended on the disciples of Christ.
Holy chrism is oil prepared in a special way, which is consecrated once a year by the patriarch and then sent to all dioceses, where the bishops distribute it to the abbots.
A priest anoints an already baptized person with holy chrism. His forehead, eyes, nostrils, mouth, ears, chest, arms and legs are anointed.
Different parts of the body are anointed with Holy Myrrh in order to sanctify the whole person through anointing: both his body and his soul. The forehead is anointed to remove the shame that covered it due to the crime of Adam, and to sanctify our thoughts. Eyes are anointed so that we do not grope in the dark along the path of vice, but that we walk along the path of salvation under the guidance of the grace-filled light; ears - so that our ear becomes sensitive to hearing the word of God; mouth - so that they become capable of broadcasting Divine truth. Hands are anointed for sanctification for pious work, for deeds pleasing to God; feet - for our walking in the footsteps of the commandments of the Lord; and chest - so that we, clothed with the grace of the Holy Spirit, overcome every enemy force and be able to do everything in Jesus Christ strengthening us (Philippians 4:13). In a word, our thoughts, desires, our heart and our whole body are sanctified to make them capable of a new Christian life. The anointing with Myrrh is a visible sign, a seal that the newly baptized is granted the Holy Spirit by God. From the moment this sacred seal is placed on us, the Holy Spirit enters into betrothal, into a close live connection with our soul. From that very moment we become Christians.
Each time the priest repeats the words: “The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit,” and the receiver, at the end of the anointing, answers: “Amen,” which means “Truly, truly.”
Confirmation is a new independent sacrament, although it is associated with Baptism and is performed, according to the rules of the Orthodox Church, immediately after immersion in the font three times.
Acquiring a new son through Baptism, our caring mother - the Holy Church - without any delay begins to apply her care to him. Just as in bodily life, to strengthen the strength of an infant, air and food are needed, so for a person born spiritually through Baptism, special, spiritual food is needed. Such food is taught by the holy Church in the sacrament of Chrismation, through which the Holy Spirit descends upon our soul. It is like the descent of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove, which was at the Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Holy Scripture reading and procession around the font
After the Sacrament of Confirmation there is a threefold procession around the font.
The solemn circumambulation of the font with the singing of “You are baptized into Christ...” is, first of all, an expression of the Church’s joy at the birth of a new member by the Spirit of God. On the other hand, since the circle is a sign of eternity, this procession shows that the newly enlightened one expresses a desire to serve God forever, to be a lamp that is placed not under a bushel, but on a candlestick (Luke 8:16), let it shine on all his people good deeds and asks the Lord to grant him eternal bliss. Immediately after the procession around the font there is a reading of the Apostle and the Gospel. During the reading, the godparents stand with lighted candles.
The final rites of Baptism
The final rites of the rites of Baptism and Confirmation - the washing away of the Holy Myrrh and the cutting of the hair - are performed immediately after the reading of the Gospel.
The first rite is the washing away from the body of the newly baptized holy Myrrh. Now external, visible marks and symbols, because from now on only the internal assimilation of the gift of grace, faith and fidelity by a person will support him and give him strength. The Christian must bear the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit in his heart.
Hair cutting, which is performed immediately after washing off the body of the newly baptized Holy Myrrh, has been a symbol of obedience and sacrifice since ancient times. People felt the concentration of strength and energy in their hair. This rite is found both in the rite of initiation into monasticism and in the rite of initiation of readers. In a fallen world, the path to the restoration of Divine beauty, darkened, humiliated, distorted, begins with a sacrifice to God, that is, with bringing to Him with joy and gratitude that which in this world has become a symbol of beauty - hair. The meaning of this sacrifice is revealed especially vividly and touchingly at the Baptism of infants. The child cannot offer God anything else, and therefore several hairs are cut off from his head with the words: “The servant of God (servant of God) [name] is cut in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen".
Conclusion
Holy Baptism is the spiritual birth of a person, i.e. the beginning of his spiritual life, and in the early years it depends on his parents and godparents what will be the continuation. Try to ensure that your child's communion with God continues, first of all, in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, in which a person is truly united with God.
A child can be communed in any Orthodox church. An infant (up to 7 years old) does not need confession before Communion, and it is not necessary to be in the church for the entire service. He can be brought / brought after the start of the service, depending on his spiritual age. Very young children can be communed after feeding (but not immediately after; children in the church should not be allowed to gnaw bagels, crackers, etc. before communion). When feeding, meat food should be excluded. As soon as possible, try to start taking communion on an empty stomach, accustoming them to the habits of fasting, i.e. after midnight on the day of the sacrament, the child should not be given food or drink. After 4 years, communion can only be done on an empty stomach.
From an early age, try to instill in children the skills of communion with God, knowledge of faith and the Church through reading prayers, Holy Scripture for children (Bible, Holy Gospel), reading the lives of the saints, the law of God and other spiritual literature. Teach children to see the presence of God in all manifestations of the world around us.
Memo to parents
For the Baptism of a child, you must:
1) purchase in the temple:
- a consecrated cross on a ribbon (if the cross was bought in a jewelry store, then it must be consecrated);
- baptismal shirt;
- a baptismal icon (usually bought by godparents): for a boy - the Savior, for a girl - Holy Mother of God(this icon should be beautiful and expensive (to the extent of the means), because it will be with the child all his life and it is with this icon that you will bless him when you marry).
2) bring with you:
- diaper and towel for the baby;
- a paper napkin or handkerchief to wipe the child's face.
At the Baptism of children, the boy needs a godfather, the girl needs a godmother, you can invite both. Godparents must be over 16 years of age.
Women should enter the temple in modest clothes, without lipstick, otherwise, when you kiss the icons and the cross, there will be traces of lipstick on them. If you have only short skirts in your wardrobe, i.e. above the knee, it is better to come in trousers and tie the skirt given out in the temple.
Women (mother and godmother) in monthly uncleanness cannot participate in the sacraments until the end of these days.
If you would like to take a photo or video during the sacrament of Baptism, then you should ask in advance for this blessing of the priest who will perform the sacrament.
Appendix: Prayers for Children
daily prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, be Thy mercy on my children (names), keep them under Thy shelter, cover from all evil lust, drive away from them every enemy and adversary, open their ears and eyes of the heart, grant tenderness and humility to their hearts. Lord, we are all Your creation, have pity on my children (names) and turn them to repentance. Save, Lord, and have mercy on my children (names), and enlighten their minds with the light of the mind of Your Holy Gospel, and guide them on the path of Your commandments, and teach them, Savior, to do Your will, as You are our God.
Prayer for children (St. Ambrose of Optina)
Lord, You are One in all weight, You can do everything and want to be saved by everyone and come to the mind of Truth. Enlighten my children (names) with the knowledge of Thy truth and Thy Holy will and strengthen them to walk according to Thy commandments and have mercy on me, a sinner.
Prayer to the Lord Jesus Christ for godchildren
Lord Jesus Christ, be Thy mercy on my godchildren (names), keep them under Thy shelter, cover from all evil lust, drive away from them every enemy and adversary, open their ears and eyes of the heart, grant tenderness and humility to their hearts. Lord, we are all Your creation, have pity on my godchildren (names) and turn them to repentance.
Save, Lord, and have mercy on my godchildren (names), and enlighten their minds with the light of the mind of Your Holy Gospel, and guide them on the path of Your commandments, and teach them, Savior, to do Your will, as You are our God.
Prayer to the Mother of God for the conversion of the lost godson (St. Gabriel of Novgorod)
Oh, All-Merciful Lady, Virgin Lady Theotokos, Queen of Heaven! By your birth, you saved the human race from the eternal torment of the devil: for from you Christ, our Savior, was born. Look with your mercy on this (name), devoid of God's mercy and grace, intercede with your motherly boldness and your prayers from your Son, Christ our God, so that you send down your grace from above on this perishing one. Oh Blessed One! You are the hope of the unreliable, You are the desperate salvation, may the enemy not rejoice over his soul!
believers Orthodox people know about the seven Christian sacraments, one of which is baptism. The teaching says that every Orthodox needs to be baptized in order to save his soul and gain the Kingdom of Heaven after physical death. God's grace descends on those who are baptized, but there are also difficulties - everyone who takes the rite becomes a warrior of God's army, the forces of evil fall upon him. To avoid adversity, you need to wear a pectoral cross.
The day of baptism is very important for the believer - it is, as it were, the day of his second birth. This event must be approached with all responsibility. Let's talk about what the baby needs to complete the sacrament, what to buy and take with you, what godparents should do, how to celebrate this holiday at home.If the godparents (godparents) take on some of the concerns for organizing the ceremony, this will be correct. Preparation for the holiday is carried out by all its participants, especially the relatives of the baby.
It is believed that wearing a pectoral cross protects a person from the forces of evil, and also strengthens his spirit and directs him to the true path. At the same time, the appearance or cost of the material of the cross does not matter - if only the cross was Orthodox, and not paganWhen is the best time to baptize a baby?
According to custom, the baby is baptized on the 8th or 40th day after birth. There are circumstances that can affect the term for the baptism of an infant: if the baby is sick, the disease poses a threat to life, you can christen him earlier. Orthodoxy says that after christening, a guardian angel appears in a person, who is always behind his right shoulder. He will protect the baby and can save him. It is believed that the more prayers are addressed to the angel, the stronger it will be.
Some prefer to wait until the little man grows up and becomes stronger. The reverse side of the medal is that while the child is nursing, he sleeps in the arms of his godmother and calmly endures the sacrament. The older he gets, the harder it is for him to stand quietly in the service. At 2 years old, the baby spins, wants to run, go outside. This creates difficulties for the priest and godparents, because the action can last more than an hour. Bathing in a font is also easier than a baby.
The first thing mom and dad do before the sacrament is choose a spiritual name for the baby. In our country, a tradition has developed to call a baby in the world not by the name that he is given at baptism in the church - this is a custom justified in Orthodoxy, since it is believed that church name only the mother and father, the priest and the recipients can know.
Then the little man will be more protected from life's adversities. In the church, you can arrange for the baby to be named after the saint on whose day the baby's date of birth falls.
Recommendations for preparing for the rite of baptism of a small child
How to organize a child's christening? It is necessary to visit the temple in which the procedure will take place. In the church shop you can ask questions that interest you. The church clerk in the shop will offer you to read a brochure on baptism, which describes all the rules. The date of birth of your baby will be recorded, they will also ask for the desired church name of the baby, the names of his godparents. A voluntary payment is made for the ceremony in the form of a donation, which goes to the needs of the temple. How much should you pay? The size of the donation may vary from church to church.
Before the sacrament of baptism, the godparents must be sent for an interview with the priest. If mom and dad of the baby come along with them and take part in the conversation, this will only be a plus. The priest will tell you how the baptism of a young child is performed, what you need to take with you. He will definitely ask during the conversation whether the mother and father and the child's successors are baptized. If not, then the unbaptized should be baptized before the sacrament is performed on the baby. The priest during the conversation will give recommendations to the relatives of the baby, appoint the day and time when the child will be baptized. On this day, you should come in advance in order to have time to orient yourself in the situation, to prepare. Many parents invite a photographer to the christening of their child, take photos and videos. You need to know that in order to record video and take pictures, you need to ask permission and blessings from the priest.
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Who to choose as godparents?
Usually people of the same sex with the baby become godparents: for girls - a woman, for boys - a man. You can invite two godparents of different sexes. Then the baby will have a spiritual father and mother.
The question of who is worthy to be the godfather of your baby is very important. Godparents become the second parents of the baby. Think about who treats the little man better, who is ready to bear responsibility for him, give him a spiritual example, and pray for him? Most often, relatives and friends of the family become the recipients.
It is best if a person who is deeply religious, who knows and observes church traditions and laws, becomes a godfather. This person should often be at your home, since he is responsible for the upbringing of the little man, primarily spiritual. He will be with your baby for the rest of his life.
You can choose as a godfather a sister or brother of mom and dad, a close friend or family friend, grandma or grandpa of the baby.
The recipients must be baptized themselves - this must be done in advance. Parents need to understand that the issue of choosing godparents must be approached very seriously.
Who cannot become a godfather?
The laws of baptism in the Orthodox Church are such that they cannot become a godfather:
- atheists or non-believers;
- monks and nuns;
- mentally ill people;
- children under 15;
- drug addicts and alcoholics;
- promiscuous women and men;
- spouses or sexually close people;
- baby's parents.
Brother and sister cannot be godparents to each other. If you are baptizing twins, you must not do it on the same day. Godparents for twins may well be the same.
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Reminder for godparents
- Appearance. The recipients of the baby should come to church with their crosses around their necks. If this is a woman, she puts on a knee-length skirt and a jacket with sleeves in the temple. A headdress is required for the godmother. The rules of being in a church also apply to a man’s clothes: you can’t bare your knees and shoulders, that is, even in hot weather, you will have to give up shorts with a T-shirt. The man is in the temple with his head uncovered.
- Purchases and payment. People often ask who should buy a cross for a child's baptism? Who pays for the procedure? There is a certain procedure for the baptism of a newborn child and preparation for it.
- He assumes that the godfather buys a cross for the godson, and also pays for the baptism. The godmother buys a cross for her goddaughter. It is best to choose a cross made of ordinary metal or silver. It is not customary to use the golden cross at the ceremony. When choosing a cross, pay attention to the fact that it cannot injure the baby, let the cross have oval edges.
- In addition to the godmother's cross, you must buy a towel, a christening shirt and a sheet in advance. She also buys kryzhma - the material in which the baby is baptized. Caring mothers keep the matter for many years, as it helps to cure the child from the disease. A sick little man is wrapped in kryzhma, and he will begin to recover. It should be kept in a place hidden from prying eyes, since it is believed that through it you can damage the baby.
- Preparation. People appointed by spiritual parents are obliged to prepare for the rite of baptism of a small child themselves. The preparation includes a strict fast, starting a few days before the event, the rejection of entertainment and comfort. On the eve, it’s not bad to take communion in the temple, before which you go to confession. You must bring your child's birth certificate with you to church. You can watch a video from the baptism in advance in order to roughly understand the sequence of events.
- Prayer. Recipients are required to learn the "Symbol of Faith" prayer. This prayer is read three times by the priest during the sacrament of the baptism of the child, she may be asked to read by heart and the godfather.
The nuances of christening
- A little man can be baptized on any day of the week - on holidays and weekdays, on fasting and on a normal day, but most often christenings take place on Saturday.
- The recipients are supposed to pick up the child from their parents in advance and go with him to church on the appointed day and time. The parents follow them. There is a sign that the godfather should chew a clove of garlic and breathe in the face of the baby. In this way, evil forces are driven away from the baby.
- Only the closest people are present at the ceremony in the temple - the parents of the boy or girl who receives the sacrament, maybe grandparents. The rest can come to the house of the baptized after the ceremony and celebrate this event at the festive table.
- Infant baptism does not always take place in the church itself. Sometimes the priest conducts the ceremony in a specially designated room.
- If necessary, parents can arrange a ceremony at home or in the hospital. To do this, you need to agree with the priest and pay all his expenses for organizing the sacrament.
- The priest reads prayers and anoints the newborn. Then he cuts a strand of hair from his head, as if offering a sacrifice to God. Then the baby is lowered into the font three times, the priest says: “Here is the cross, my daughter (my son), carry it.” Together with the father, the godfather (aya) says: “Amen.”
- The parents of the child also come to church, observing Orthodox customs. They dress as is customary in the temple. During the ceremony, a mother can pray for her child. Such prayers will surely be heard.
- In the evening, relatives and friends come to the holiday with gifts. Their choice depends on wealth and imagination: toys or clothes, baby care items or the icon of the saint - the patron saint of the baby.
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Features of christening boys and girls
The christening of a girl and a boy differ little. During the ceremony, the godfather carries the male baby behind the altar, but the godmother does not carry the female child there. The christening of a newborn girl assumes the presence of a headdress, that is, they put a scarf on her. When are christenings little boy, he is in the temple without a headdress.
If both godparents participate in the ceremony, then at first the godmother holds the boy’s child, and after bathing in the font, the godfather takes him in his arms and carries him to the altar. The girl is held in her arms only by the godmother. This is the main difference in the rite over children of the opposite sex.
If the order of baptism of a small child is observed, the natural and spiritual parents of the child will prepare for christening, the child will grow up healthy and cheerful. When he grows up, he will become a highly spiritual person striving for a righteous life.
Clinical and perinatal psychologist, graduated from the Moscow Institute of Perinatal and Reproductive Psychology and Volgograd State Medical University with a degree in Clinical Psychology
The sacrament of baptism causes reverent awe in most people. Even not deeply believing parents necessarily baptize the baby so that the child is under God's protection.
The rite of baptism is a ritual that requires little preparation. It is important to know when to baptize a newborn, what to prepare for going to church, who to take as godparents (named parents). Learn more about the traditional Christian rite.
Most parents try to protect the tiny little man early, they conduct the sacrament of baptism until the baby is 1 year old. Most often, the ceremony is performed on the 40th day after the birth of the child. Sometimes the sacrament takes place later, if the baby is sick, the weather is so windy and cold that the baby can easily catch a cold.
Take note:
- it is not worth postponing the ceremony for a long time: newborn children up to a year old behave calmly during the sacrament, most of them sleep;
- after a year and a half, the child often spins, is naughty, is afraid of incomprehensible smells, sounds, many strangers, the actions of a priest;
- with such behavior, the special atmosphere inherent in the traditional rite disappears: all efforts are aimed at calming the crying baby;
- whims, screams, exhortations of parents often wake up other children if the ceremony takes place for several couples;
- consider an important point, ensure maximum peace of mind during the ritual.
In some cases, the priest does not recommend postponing baptism. Perform the traditional ceremony as soon as possible if the baby is restless, weak, born prematurely. In case of a serious illness, priests also advise to baptize the baby early.
Baptism of a child: what you need to know? Helpful Hints:
- any day is suitable for the ceremony. Often young parents choose Saturday and Sunday, when many close people and friends can come to share the joy;
- into major church holidays christening is not very convenient: a lot of people gather in the temple, the child may burst into tears due to stuffiness, a large crowd of strangers. On such days, the priest will not be able to devote enough time to parents and the baby;
- if you plan a date in advance, pay attention to a delicate nuance: mommy can be present in the temple when she is not at that moment critical days. Choose the date of the christening taking into account an important factor.
Where to baptize a newborn
The bulk of the rites of baptism of the child takes place in the church. Sometimes circumstances interfere with visiting the temple: the child quickly catches a cold in crowded places, the baby gets sick, gets very worried, cries at the sight of strangers. What to do?
Talk to the priest, whom you respect, explain the situation. The priest will take the accessories for the ceremony with him, will baptize the baby at home. Parents will need to prepare attributes for the ceremony.
Advice! In small settlements there is often one or two churches, the choice of where to baptize a child is practically absent. If you live in a big city, don't be lazy, talk to your friends, ask for advice on choosing a priest. It is important to know that the holy father will approach the sacrament of baptism with soul. Come to the temple in advance, talk with the priest, ask for advice on preparing for the ceremony. Find a person who is completely conducive to you.
Necessary purchases: traditions and rules
What is required for a child to be baptized? Take note:
- most often the cost of the ceremony, the purchase of special accessories in the church is paid by the godfather. Sometimes the parents and the godfather pay the rite equally. It is impossible to force the named pope to pay in full for the christening if the person is still in a difficult financial situation;
- the godmother should bring a kryzhma - a special towel for the christening of a child, in which the priest will wrap the crumbs during the ceremony. Kryzhma needs to be consecrated before christening. Often, the named mother buys a teaspoon made of silver (the cutlery is also holy in the church);
- young parents buy little things for baptism: crosses for guests, candles, pectoral cross for the crumbs. Many parents choose a gold product, but a church cross on a satin ribbon is quite suitable;
- at baptism, the child receives a second, church name, based on the date of the ceremony. Parents should buy an icon with the face of a saint (holy) - the patron saint for the baby. Choose an icon in the temple: it will be consecrated there, after the christening, the parents will take the amulet home to protect the newly baptized baby from evil forces.
How much does a child's baptism cost? Specify in advance the cost of accessories for the ceremony: often the amount is impressive.
Which outfit is suitable for adults and kids
- women are required to wear a light scarf / scarf / thin scarf on their heads. The skirt or dress should cover the knees. Under the ban deep neckline, open shoulders, too bright, defiant colors;
- men will suit trousers and a shirt of soothing tones. Breeches, shorts in the temple are out of place;
- a special baptismal set of a beautiful undershirt and a hat, on which a cross is embroidered, will suit the baby. A special set is put on the baby only for the sacrament of baptism, then kept at home, reminding of the purity of the child's soul. If you don't have a christening set, wear nice clothes that are easy to put on and take off.
How to choose named parents
Unfortunately, often parents do not attach much importance to this moment. They are looking for someone who will agree or who is allowed by the rules. Not always godparents are people who are ready to come to the rescue at the first call of their parents, to rejoice for the named son or daughter.
Many choose second parents, based on the wealth of the named mother and father, in the hope of expensive gifts or an invitation to visit abroad. Kind, decent people with below average incomes are unfortunately rarely considered as suitable candidates.
This is why many godparents see their named children only for birthdays, and even then, not for all. Sometimes godparents are remembered only before preparing for the godson's wedding in order to get an expensive gift.
Important! Ideally, the named parents should be congenial people or good friends. If you have such acquaintances or relatives in mind, invite them to christening, entrust them to become a named father or mother. Good godparents are joy in the house. Remember about spiritual communication with the godson, and not just about the material side of the issue. Remember: the financial side tends to change for better or worse, and good relationships often last a lifetime.
Who can be godfather
Entrust the honorable duty:
- good friends;
- relatives whom you are glad to see in your house;
- family aunts and uncles.
Who can't be a godfather
Young parents should be aware that there are limits. Traditions do not allow certain categories of relatives and friends to be invited to this responsible role.
Cannot be godparents:
- baby's parents;
- children: the minimum age of the godmother is 13 years old, the godfather is 15 years old;
- a married couple cannot be invited to become godparents for one baby;
- mental illness is a reason to refuse the help of a person who, due to pathology, is not able to fully realize the measure of responsibility;
- people of a different faith. Sometimes the ban is violated if future godfather- a very good, kind person.
How is the ceremony
How is the baptism of a child? The scenario of the ritual is practically the same, regardless of the location of the church (large city or small village). Parents, friends, relatives, future godparents should generally understand how the sacrament is performed so that there is no confusion or awkwardness in some situations.
Basic moments:
- baptism is scheduled for a certain time, but you need to drive up to the temple in advance: this way you will have time to arrange financial issues, negotiate documents for the baby;
- an important point is to properly prepare the baby for the ritual. Undress the child, wrap it naked in kryzhma - a special diaper or a beautiful towel larger than the baby;
- the clergyman first invites the godmother to the church with the boy in his arms, the future goddaughter is carried by a man;
- further inside the temple are the invited guests, the mother comes last. Sometimes, before reading certain prayers, mommy waits outside;
- the priest takes the newborn in his arms. At this time, the guests repeat the prayer of renunciation of the devil;
- the next stage is immersing the crumbs in the font. The action is performed three times. If baptism is carried out in the cold season, the priest can pour some water from the font on the arms and legs of the baby;
- Chrismation takes place after the water ritual. The newly baptized baby receives a blessing, protection from dark forces. To do this, on the nose, forehead, eyes, lips, ears, arms, legs and chest, the clergyman puts smears in the form of a cross with church liquid;
- the priest gives the crumbs to the named parents: the woman takes the boy, the man takes the girl. Now you need to wipe, dress the baby.
Find out why your child stutters and how to deal with it.
The sacrament of baptism continues:
- the baby receives a pectoral cross. One of the named parents holds the baby, the second puts on a consecrated cross;
- the priest cuts a few locks from the baby's head (in the center). This detail means obedience to God, the new spiritual life of the newly baptized baby;
- at the end of the rite, the priest with the baby in his arms goes around the font three times. The priest puts the girl to the icon of the Virgin, the boy is brought into the altar;
- now you can transfer the newly baptized baby to the mother. The parent brings out a crumb of their temple;
- all guests, godparents go home with their parents to celebrate the baptism of the baby.
The traditional ceremony takes from 30-40 minutes to two hours. The more couples in the church baptize children, the longer the sacrament lasts: the priest pays attention to each child.
Now you know when a newborn baby is baptized, who to make named parents, what to purchase for the ceremony. Consider the recommendations, choose worthy godparents, take a responsible attitude to the preparation of the solemn ceremony. May God and the saints bless the newly baptized baby, protect him from adversity, protect him from troubles and the influence of dark forces!
And so, the article:
According to the rules, the baby must be baptized on the fortieth day after birth. But in extraordinary circumstances it can be done earlier. Moreover, in this case, any baptized person can act as a priest.
The optimal age when the baby is able to endure the ceremony without whims is 3-6 months. A month or two later, a child who is already beginning to distinguish between “us” and “them” may be frightened by an unfamiliar environment and cry, which will complicate the process of baptism for himself, his parents, and the priest.
Where to baptize?
The child's parents choose Orthodox church based on your own preferences. Baptism can be performed almost any day after the morning prayer service without an appointment. They baptize both in fasting and on holidays. However, if you have scheduled a certain time and day for this ritual, it is better to communicate with the priest in advance. The possibility (or impossibility) of photographing the sacrament is also preliminarily discussed. Now this is allowed in many temples, but most often for a fee. Those who are embarrassed to personally negotiate with the priest can ask the novices for help - women who work in the temple or trade in the church shop. When choosing a central temple for baptism, keep in mind that the date of the ceremony will be set regardless of your plans and the temple may be crowded at this moment. For these reasons, it makes sense to baptize the child in a small church near the house.
How to choose godparents?
The choice of godparents - godparents - should be approached with special responsibility. According to church canons, godparents are the spiritual educators of the child and guarantors for him before God. Therefore, this issue should not be decided for reasons of kinship, benefit, or “not to offend”. Rules for choosing godparents:
* Godparents must themselves be baptized in Orthodoxy;
* It is desirable that there are two godparents - a man (over 15 years old) and a woman (over 13 years old); if there is only one godfather, he must be of the same gender as the child;
* The recipients should not be married to each other or are going to get married;
* Relatives of the child (grandmother or grandfather, aunt or uncle, or other family members) can act as godparents;
* A pregnant woman can become a godmother, but since the girl will mainly have to be held in her arms, your chosen one needs to calculate her strength;
* A woman who gave birth less than 40 days ago cannot become a godmother.
What are the duties of godparents?
The people you have chosen as recipients should prepare for the ceremony as seriously as you, if not more seriously. To do this, they need:
* Visit a church to confess (repent of your sins) and take communion;
* Learn the prayer "Symbol of Faith";
* Fast 3-4 days before the ceremony;
* On the day of baptism, as well as before communion, godparents should not eat or have sex;
* On the recipients during the ceremony, pectoral crosses must be worn;
* According to custom, it is the godparents who bear the costs of;
* Also, according to the Orthodox tradition, the godmother gives the child an outfit for the ceremony, and the godfather - a cross.
Prayer SYMBOL OF FAITH
I believe in one God the Father, Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, visible to all and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Only Begotten, who was born of the Father before all ages; Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, uncreated, consubstantial with the Father, Whom all was. For us for the sake of man and for our sake of salvation, he descended from heaven and became incarnate from the Holy Spirit and Mary the Virgin, and became human. Crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered, and was buried. And resurrected on the third day according to the Scriptures. And ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of the Father. And the packs of the future with glory to judge the living and the dead, His Kingdom will have no end. And in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Life-Giving One, Who proceeds from the Father, Who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who spoke the prophets. Into one Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. I confess one baptism for the remission of sins. I look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the age to come. Amen.
Rules of conduct in the church.
* Dress in church modestly and decently. Calm, dark tones are preferred, flashy ones are unacceptable.
* A dress or skirt for women should be long enough - up to the knees and even lower. Men, entering the church, bare their heads. Women, on the contrary, cover it with a scarf or other headdress. Jewelry on this day is best left at home.
* You can light a candle with either hand.
* You need to be baptized only with your right hand.
* Men stand on the right half of the church, and women on the left.
* A mother cannot enter the temple if her discharge continues.
What is required for the ceremony?
* Pectoral cross (on a ribbon), which can be purchased at a church shop or directly in the church. If the cross is bought in a store, then it must be consecrated in advance. Note that some crosses depicting a crucifix according to the Catholic model are not subject to consecration. The Catholic cross is easy to recognize by the fact that on it the Savior's feet are nailed to the cross not with two nails, but with one.* Icon of an Orthodox saint, whose name the baby will receive.
* Baptismal shirt. In principle, any new white clothes can act as this, but it is better to purchase a special shirt in the church (and a bonnet for a girl).
* A clean towel or diaper to wipe the child after the font (this item does not need to be consecrated).
How is the baptism?
Many parents are worried that, according to church rules, they are not allowed to be present in church during the ceremony. However, now not all priests strictly adhere to this prohibition. Therefore, it is better for dads, moms, and godparents to know in advance the order of the baptismal ceremony.
Parents with a baby, a godfather and guests arrive at the church a little in advance so as not to start the ceremony in a hurry and, moreover, not to keep the priest waiting. After the sign to the beginning is given, the godparents bring the child to the temple (the godfather holds the girl, and the godmother holds the boy). In this case, the baby should be without clothes, but wrapped in a white diaper.
The first sacrament is the laying on of the priest's hand on the baby, symbolizing the protection that the Lord provides to the baby.
When the sacrament is performed, the godparents with the baby in their arms and with candles stand at the font. They read the Creed aloud, renounce the devil and promise to keep the commandments of God. Then the priest blesses the water, takes the baby from the godparents and plunges him into the font three times with the words: “The servant of God (name) is baptized in the name of the Father, amen, and the Son, amen, and the Holy Spirit, amen.” (There is no need to worry about the fact that the child will catch a cold, since it is usually warm in the temple, and the water temperature in the font is + 36-37 degrees).
Along with baptism, the sacrament of chrismation takes place. To a baptized infant, the priest anoints the forehead, eyes, ears, mouth, nostrils, chest, arms and legs with holy myrrh, each time saying: “The seal of the Holy Spirit, amen.” Next, the baby is handed over to the recipient of the same sex, who must wipe the baby and put on him a cross and a baptismal shirt prepared in advance. The white robe put on the baptized signifies the cleansing from sins received by him through the holy sacrament.
The priest cuts the baby’s hair in a cross-like manner (cutting off a tiny strand on each side of the head), which symbolizes obedience to God and at the same time marks the small sacrifice that the baptized person brings to the Lord in thanksgiving for the beginning of a new, spiritual life. At the same time, the priest says: “The servant of God (or the servant of God) (name) is being sheared in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, amen.”
After baptism and chrismation, the baby is carried 3 times around the font. This means that the new member of the Church is forever united with her.
And, finally, if a boy was baptized, the priest brings him to the altar, if a girl, he helps her to venerate the icon Mother of God. Churching symbolizes the dedication of the baby to God according to the Old Testament image.
Be prepared for the fact that the rite of baptism will take from 30 minutes to 2 hours (the time of the rite depends on the priest).
How to celebrate baptism?
After the christening, the family and those invited go to the house where the child lives to celebrate the christening with a traditional plentiful feast. In addition to other pickles, guests are served a hot drink (punch, mulled wine or warmed wine) and a special holiday treat. It is usually a sweet cake decorated with the child's initials and the date of the christening.
And do not forget to take the baby to Communion after baptism (be it a baby or an older baby)
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 about 40 days is mentioned in Old Testament, and it is also believed that until the 40th day the mother cannot be present at 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 in Gerasimo-Boldinsky monastery 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.
Announcements in Lately became 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 say 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. Godmother can also buy a cross for his 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 baptismal attire 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, which are covered with elegant lace napkins 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 25.
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 give 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 that day, then look at the following days), or at the 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 be responsible 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.