1. I am baptising my child, where do I start?
  2. What is the recommended age for my baby to be baptised?
  3. Can my child be baptised at any time of the year?
  4. May I choose whomever I wish to baptise my child?
  5. I am going to be the godmother of a child. What are the items I must provide for the ceremony?

Question: I am baptising my child, where do I start?

Answer:

It s recommended to meet with a priest at least two months prior to your preferred date for the baptism. You will need to set a date for the baptism and the priest will guide you, answer any questions you may have, and provide educational literature.

Question: What is the recommended age for my baby to be baptised?

Answer:

Generally, in a Greek Orthodox baptism, the baby is from 3 months to 24 months old. However, there is no age constraint. One can be baptised at any time in one`s life.

Question: Can my child be baptised at any time of the year?

Answer:

There are certain days on which baptism ceremonies are prohibited by the Church: Christmas Day, December 25 through Theophany, January 6, during Holy Week, Easter and the other Great Feasts of the lord. It is not customary to hold a baptism ceremony during fasting periods.

Question: May I choose whomever I wish to baptise my child?

Answer:

It is suggested that the godparent or godparents not be blood relatives, though it can be done. The godparent must be at least twelve years old and a member of the Greek Orthodox Church.

Question: I am going to be the godmother of a child. What are the items I must provide for the ceremony?

Answer:

The godparent is traditionally expected to offer the following:

· An Orthodox cross with a chain (generally in gold)

· The oil towel set (Ladopana)

· A bar of soap

· A small bottle of olive oil

· Undergarments and socks

· New shoes

· Baptismal clothes

· A large decorated candle to be displayed in church

· Two small decorated candles to be held by the parents

Some godparents choose to offer three of each clothing items (undergarments, shoes, and clothes).


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