Park Gate Baptist

So why do people have their baby christened? It would appear that some do it, so they get a chance to buy cute Christening Invitations, Ireland and other countries have gone mad producing.  Obviously I am joking, well mostly.

The idea behind a Christening is to formally introduce the child to Christ. In religions such as Catholicism, it is the done thing to have your baby baptized fairly soon after they are born. Usually most parents will arrange the ceremony before the baby is a year old.   There are obviously those who convert later in life and it is not unknown for adults to arrange their own Baptism.

Does the christening service have any legal implications?

It depends on the country you live in but not usually. In most countries the birth of the baby is registered and it is at this point that their name becomes legally recognized.  While some schools require proof of baptism before they will take an application for a place, many don’t.  There are some priests who prefer not to marry those Catholics who cannot produce baptism papers but then there are others who will proceed with the ceremony.  

When should you send out the christening invitations?

If you have ever been to a baptism it is a lovely event and one that you should consider sharing with your family and friends. Make sure you give them plenty of time to save the time and date by sending out christening invitations.  Ireland and other countries usually have plenty of stores that can provide these fairly cheaply. You certainly don’t have to spend as much money as you would if you were buying wedding invitations for example.