Naming Ceremonies in the Church of England

 

In this ceremony, parents and Godparents promise to raise the child in the Christian faith. Even if the child's parents are not regular churchgoers, a child can still be Christened and the local vicar will be able to provide guidance on this. Sometimes a vicar will require parents to undergo a period of instruction before the Christening, but again, this will depend upon circumstances and the vicar him/herself- English Church

 

Usually, Christenings form part of the regular Sunday service to welcome the child into the community. Often, several Christenings take place in the same service, but in some parishes a private ceremony can be arranged following the Sunday service.

 

Parents and Godparents will be asked to make declarations that they believe in God and will raise the child to follow Jesus. The vicar will make the sign of the cross and then pour water on the child's head to wash away sin. Sometimes a candle will be lit in the church or given to the parents to symbolise the light that has now come into their child's life- Traditional Anglican

 

Some vicars will allow parents or guests to choose hymns and readings for the service.

 

The Church of England suggests that at least three Godparents are chosen, two the same sex as the child being Christened. Usually Godparents are relatives or close friends of the parents - people the child will have regular contact with. Godparents should themselves have been Christened and some vicars also require that they are confirmed. Godparents should be comfortable making the religious promises that are required of them- Conservative Religion

 

In 1999 the Church of England introduced a Thanksgiving or Blessing Service. This is designed for those wanting a religious service to thank God for the child, but are not ready to make the commitment to baptism into the faith. A Christening can always follow at a later date. In these ceremonies Godparents are not chosen, but adults who will have a similar role in the child's life can take part.

 

For more details Conservative Anglican, check the links https://www.ryansetliff.online/#anglican