Baptisim questions

kit_kats_mom wrote: We are attending a baptism this weekend. I really like the kids and the parents but....ummmmm....OK, I'll admit it......I've never been to a Baptism before.

Am I supposed to do anything? Are gifts typical? What should I wear? The family seems to be one that is pretty big on etiquette and my mom skipped that whole chapter when she was brining me up. I just don't want to look like a total fool. Any info for me?

CantWait replied: I guess it really depends on what the religion or faith is. If it's a Christian/Catholic Baptism, you don't have to "dress up", but typically people that go to a Catholic church do wear something somewhat nice. Dress pants, nice shirt, skirt, that sort of thing. There's nothing special you need to do, and as for gift, customaily people usually do bring something small, but it certainly isn't mandatory.

kit_kats_mom replied: Thanks Marie. It's Lutherin if that makes any difference.

kimberley replied: just wear what you would wear to church. Baptismal gifts typically include: rosaries, first bible, crucifix, cross on a chain... and precious moments has a lot of really cute keepsakes for it like piggy banks, frames, jewellery boxes, certificate holders etc. there is nothing you have to do but watch the blessed event

have a great time!

mom21kid2dogs replied: Dress would be church attire. I equate Baptism as a little dressier than regular Sunday services, so I would dress like you might for a wedding at the same time of day. A gift and card are appropriate, especially if there will be a meal or reception following the ceremony. One of the things we got at O's baptism that we use all the time is a book of children's bible stories.
Have a nice time!!

coasterqueen replied: In our Lutheran church people where just about whatever. Usually baptisms are scheduled during church service, so some at our church come in jeans, dressed up, semi-casual, etc. IMO I'd wear something nice, not too fancy, but like slacks, nice dress shirt or a dress. Something to that effect. As far as a gift, we don't normally do gifts for baptisms, but you could do something small and that would be fine.

Boo&BugsMom replied:
I think my hubby may be able to help (scratching head). His family is Lutheran. My family is non-denominational so the baptism's I've been to are all for people who are older kids and adults. I "think" most baptism etiquette when it comes to infant baptism's are pretty similar though.

coasterqueen replied: As far as a gift you could make a small donation to the church in name of her baptism. Just an idea.

Brias3 replied: I think nice attire would be appropriate for dress- a nice pair of (non jean) slacks or a casual dress or pretty skirt for you, dress shirt and pants for husband (not necessarily tie, unless he wants) and dress or skirt for the girls. Gifts we received for the kids baptisms were usually something religious based or a monetary gift. If you have a Christian shop or bookstore nearby you, they'll be sure to have some great, thoughtful ideas and trinkets.

Good luck!

Hillbilly Housewife replied: All 3 of mine are baptised... this is what WE did.

We had sent invitations to friends and family etc... including date, time, and what's to follow. With Zach we had a reception in a hall. With Emilie, we had a smaller reception in my grandmother's home. With Naomie, we had an even smaller reception in my house. For all three though, we served cake, refreshments, sandwiches, veggies, fruit, coffee, tea, juice etc... a light spread.

As gifts, the kids received cash, picture scrapbook type books, reading books, toys, religious themed jewellery, some clothes, art stuff.... they got stuff like a birthday. They didn't really get baptism stuff, the girls got a chain with cross, they all have rosaries, and Emilie has a snowglobe baptism themed. It sits on my piano though.

What kid likes to open a gift and BANG there's a Bible. Woopdeedoo... I say get the kid something nice... and a baptism themed card.

jcc64 replied: I think the clothes question has been adequately answered. When I was baptised back in the Stone Ages, I think it was customary to give a savings bond to be used towards the child's future education expenses. I believe that's what my mom still gives. Another idea is to buy a few stocks from a child friendly company (like Disney- are they even public?)

redchief replied: Savings bonds, religious keepsakes or books (not a rosary or Miraculous Medal, though), a card is enough if you're not especially close to the parents of the child.