Christians have many rites that mark certain stages or transition in their lives. One of these rites is baptism when water is put on the forehead of the baby to symbolize the baby has joined the Church or becoming a Christian. Parents are free to choose whether they want to hold a grand celebration out of it, or just throwing a simple reception. In early times, baptism has to take place in moving water to symbolize the movement of the Holy Spirit in human life. Nowadays, baptism ceremony normally take place in the church with a priest leading the ritual.



If you ask me how I would like to celebrate my baby's christening, I would definitely reply that I want a moderate, fulfilling party. I will make sure that everything goes according to plan and enlist help from experienced people. I would make some mini research about subject of baptism and the art of throwing fabulous party. I know the importance of proper planning and making everybody involved in the ceremony feel good and appreciated. Proper planning means that I must make neat arrangements with all parties involved like the church, food caterer and godparents.

For a religious Baptism you will need to meet with your local clergyman to discuss the details of the ceremony. Decide where you want it held, be it at the church, your garden, home, hotel or another locale. Investigate the guidelines for the ceremony different Christian denominations have differing customs and rites; is it performed during a regular Sunday service or is it something that is done on a separate day and time that you need to schedule. You may even have to take special Baptism/Christening classes before the event. Usually you would also have to select Godparents for the child, these persons are normally friends which whom you feel can lead your child in his or her spiritual growth and are willing to commit themselves to this task. Traditionally, in many faiths, baby girls are given two Godmothers and one Godfather, and baby boys should have two Godfathers and one Godmother, but it's really up to the parents to decide how many they want. You will also want to take into consideration how the chosen Godparents may handle the responsibility of becoming your child's full-time guardian should the need arise.

If you are organizing any event and want to avoid any possible glitches, it is best that you plan everything early and that includes sending out invitation cards. One month to two weeks prior to the actual event date is the recommended period for sending out invitation cards. Guests are given enough time to decide and inform you whether they are able to attend the event or not. Early planning benefits both the host and the guests alike.

For the christening ritual, the baby wears white colored gown usually made of luxurious material such as satin, silk and lace. If the host is on a tight budget, he may use the gown that is inherited and passed down from previous generation.

Some baptism rituals can last up to half an hour while others may take up to 45 minutes. Usually they are conducted in less than an hour. After the ceremony, normally the host would hold a simple reception to gracefully end the occasion. Smart host would plan early and make bookings weeks earlier to avoid rushing at the last minute. He may choose a community hall or restaurant to hold the reception.

After the baptism ceremony, it is only normal for the host to treat their guests to a feast. The feast need not be elaborated; just some light finger-foods such as fries, salad and chicken wings are good enough. The host may also wish to include desserts and fruits to complement the meals. Canned and packet drinks are convenient too. It is also a good idea to order food from the catering service as well as fast food outlets. If the host is on a budget, he may want to organize a pot bless. Guests would be more than happy to bring their own food and share them with everyone. This is an economical way for the host.

It is good for the parents who are organizing baptism ceremony for their baby to plan early for the celebration. They can write thank-you cards in advance, maybe a week or two before the actual ceremony. They can also purchase items to be given as presents to their guests and prepare the presents early. This will save them from any stress due to last minute preparations and rush. Once the gifts have been prepared, the host can concentrate on other important matters pertaining the baptism rituals. No matter how busy they are, they must endeavor to show gratitude to their guests.