A child’s baptism is a beautiful and sacred event in both Greek Orthodox and Catholic traditions. While both ceremonies welcome the child into the Christian faith, they have unique rituals and symbolic meanings. If you’re planning a baptism or christening and wondering about the differences, this guide will help you understand what sets them apart.
1. The Name: Baptism vs. Christening
In the Catholic Church, the ceremony is often called a Christening, while in the Greek Orthodox Church, it is strictly referred to as a Baptism. However, both involve baptising the child with water and giving them their Christian identity.
2. The Role of Godparents
In both traditions, godparents (or sponsors) play a crucial role, but their responsibilities differ:
- Greek Orthodox Baptism: The godparent, or nounos/nouna, plays a major role in the child’s spiritual upbringing. They are responsible for ensuring the child is raised in the Orthodox faith, teaching them prayers, and guiding them in religious practices.
- Catholic Christening: Catholic godparents serve as spiritual guides and promise to support the child’s faith journey. While their role is significant, the responsibility for religious upbringing primarily remains with the parents.
3. The Baptismal Rituals
Greek Orthodox Baptism:
– The child is fully immersed in water three times, representing Christ’s death and resurrection.
– The priest anoints the child with Holy Chrism (Myron), which signifies receiving the Holy Spirit.
– The child is dressed in all white, symbolising purity and new life.
– A special baptismal candle (Lambada) is used, representing the light of Christ.
– The godparent recites the Creed on behalf of the child, renouncing Satan and professing faith in the Holy Trinity.
Catholic Christening:
– The priest typically pours water over the child’s forehead three times, symbolising purification and rebirth.
– Holy oils (Chrism) may be applied, but it is not as central as in Orthodox tradition.
– The child is clothed in a white garment, symbolising purity.
– A baptismal candle is lit to represent the light of Christ.
– The parents and godparents recite vows on behalf of the child.
4. First Communion and Confirmation
One major difference is when the child receives other sacraments:
- Greek Orthodox Church: During baptism, the child also receives Holy Communion and Chrismation (similar to Catholic Confirmation). This means the child is fully initiated into the Orthodox faith from the start.
- Catholic Church: Baptism is the first step, but Communion and Confirmation come later, usually in childhood or adolescence.
5. Cultural Traditions
Greek Orthodox baptisms often have additional traditions, such as:
– The godparent gifting the child a cross necklace, symbolising their faith.
– A post-baptism ritual where the child is bathed three days later to remove the oils.
– A celebratory feast with traditional Greek food and music.
Catholic Christenings are often followed by a family gathering or reception, but without as many formal traditions.
Which One Is Right for Your Child?
Both ceremonies are deeply meaningful and spiritually significant. If your family comes from a Greek Orthodox background, a traditional baptism ensures the child is fully initiated into the faith. If you are Catholic, a christening marks the beginning of your child’s spiritual journey, with other sacraments to follow.
No matter which path you choose, both ceremonies celebrate faith, family, and the joy of welcoming a child into the Christian community.
We offer a range of customised items for both Orthodox & Catholic traditions and if you have something in particular in mind we would love to chat more to discuss. Email through to [email protected]
