What is needed for baptism? Plan your christening

Baptism, also known as christening, is an important event for anyone entering the Christian faith.

The baptism ceremony is a perfect opportunity to welcome the individual into the faith and gather loved ones to celebrate.

By carefully selecting a church, godparents or sponsors, and a venue for the celebration, you can easily plan a baptism for individuals of all ages, from babies to adults.

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Checklist for planning Baptism

arranging the baptism service. When planning a christening, visit potential locations or congregations that align with your beliefs and can accommodate the number of guests you expect. It's important to find a church several months in advance to establish a relationship with the congregation. Contact the church to schedule a meeting with the priest or minister, who can provide insight into any requirements or traditions associated with christenings.
Make a list of any expectations and wishes you have for the baptism. Discuss these possibilities with the clergy at the church. Ask any questions that arise from the conversation, such as expectations the church may have of you or the person being baptized, like attendance at or helping with services.
classes or examinations or trainings you require before the ceremony of christening. For example, the Catholic Church requires education in the Catholic faith for godparents if you are baptizing a baby or for adults being baptized. Be sure to ask about this if needed.
Schedule the baptism. For example, the Catholic Church requires education in the Catholic faith for godparents if you are baptizing a baby or for adults being baptized. Be sure to ask about this if needed. After successfully deciding on your baptism venue, schedule the baptism with a church and clergy member whom you would like to perform the ceremony. Consider special dates such as Easter or Christmas for the baptism, as they may make the event more special and easier for out-of-town guests to attend. Schedule the date at least 4 weeks in advance. Suggest several different dates to help ensure you get the church and clergy member you want for the baptism. Coordinate the dates with your loved ones, especially godparents or sponsors, if you absolutely want them to attend.
choose godparents or sponsors. Some churches require you to choose godparents for a baptism, or you may choose to have them to help guide the person being baptized. In most cases, godparents provide spiritual support and nurturing to a child, while a sponsor can guide a child or an adult being baptized. However, in the Catholic Church, adults can also have one or two godparents. Many churches will require that a godparent or sponsor be baptized and active members of the church. When selecting godparents or sponsors, consider factors such as your relationship with them, their potential commitment to guiding the person in the faith, or being there in case something happens to the parents. It's a good idea to have several possible choices in case your first choice declines. Ask the prospective godparents or sponsors if they are willing to act in this capacity. Respect their decision if they choose not to be a godparent.
compose the guest list You will likely want people to attend the ceremony and the celebration afterward. Make a list of definite and potential guests whom you would like to share in the baptism. Discuss the list with your spouse, the godparents, or anyone else taking part in the ceremony.
Decide how many people you want to attend Consider whether the event is for adults only or if children will be included. If children are invited, you may want to have child supervisors or activities to keep them entertained. Ensure that the number of guests you plan to invite can comfortably fit in the church or party venue.
send out invitations Depending on the formality of the baptism, you may want to send out invitations or simply inform guests about the event. Be sure to send out the invitations or information at least three to four weeks in advance of the baptism to allow guests time to rearrange their schedules. Include RSVP cards so you can get an accurate headcount for the ceremony and any celebration you are hosting, especially if you are serving food. (RSVP is an abbreviation of the French phrase "Répondez, s'il vous plaît," which translates to "Respond if you please.")
let know your guests if children may attend Please inform your guests if children may attend and whether you have included supervisors or activities for young guests.
you may want to choose a special christening gown or say a specific prayer. Consider incorporating traditions into baptisms as they can be a special time to honor family and faith traditions. Incorporate any elements you may want into the ceremony to help make it more personalized and special. Discuss incorporating the traditions with your clergy member, who can help you plan where best to use them.
hire a photographer. Depending on the size and formality of the baptism, you may want to consider hiring a photographer. Be sure to confirm with the church that photography is allowed. If you opt for professional photos, schedule a meeting with the photographer. Alternatively, you can ask a friend or family member to capture the special moments of the day.
Confirm details. A few days before the baptism, call the church and any other venues to confirm details and numbers. This can ensure that everything is ready and in place on the baptism day.