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A Welsh Christening
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A Welsh Christening |
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| Most babies from Christian families will be Christened in a Church or Chapel. In the service, both parents and Godparents promise to bring up the baby to believe in God and Jesus Christ. The ceremony reminds Christians of the time when Christ was baptised by John the Baptist. |
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The Vicar Christens babies in the Church. |
| The font is the container that holds the water
for the ceremony. This is usually situated by the door of the Church and its position here is a symbol of the welcome offered to the baby into the Christian family. |
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During the service, the Vicar will make a sign of the Cross on the baby’s forehead. At this time the infant is given its Christian (first) names. Water is an important symbol to all Christians, and in the Christening service, the water cleanses the soul. |
| Special friends are chosen by the parents to become Godparents. They promise to help bring up the child in the Christian faith. |
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As part of the service, a candle is lit from the altar and presented to the parents or Godparents. The candle is a symbol of welcoming the child into the Christian family, and is lit annually on the anniversary of the service. |
| After the service, it is usual for family and friends to be invited to a party to celebrate the Christening. |  |
