It is an important time in a person's life when they are christened.The perfect time for a person to be welcomed to the faith is during abaptism ceremony.By choosing a church, godparents or sponsors, you can easily plan abaptism for every person from a baby to an adult.
Step 1: Search for prospective churches.
Depending on whether or not you belong to a specific congregation, you may need to find a church in which to arrange the ceremony.You can visit different locations to help you narrow down your choices if you want to host the baptism in a grander church.You might want to visit a location where you can hold thebaptism.Consider factors such as how the congregation's style and beliefs fit in with yours, as well as if the size can accommodate the number of people you want to attend.You should find a church at least a few months in advance so you can get to know the congregation.
Step 2: Inquire about the church's clergy.
You should schedule a meeting with the priest or minister once you have found a church that will hold thebaptism.She can give you a better idea of the requirements the church may have.Make a list of your expectations and wishes.Discuss them with the clergy to see if they can be done.Ask any questions that come up from the conversation.You may want to inquire about the expectation the church has of you or the person being baptized, such as attendance in or helping with services.Before you can be baptized, ask if there are any classes, exams or training you need.The Catholic Church requires education in the faith before you can be an adult.
Step 3: It's a good idea to schedule the baptism.
The church and clergy member who you would like to perform the ceremony should be contacted after you have decided on your venue.Consider special dates such as Easter or Christmas, which may make the event more special, or make it easier for out of town guests to attend.You should schedule the date at least four weeks in advance.You should suggest different dates to make sure you get the church and clergy member you want.If you want godparents or sponsors to attend, coordinate dates with your loved ones.
Step 4: The godparents or sponsors should be chosen.
Some churches require that you choose godparents or sponsors for abaptism, or you may just want to have them to help guide the person being baptized.You can choose from among your family, friends or other loved ones.In most cases, godparents provide spiritual support and nurturing to a child, while a sponsor can lead the child or adult through thebaptism process.Adults can have one or two godparents in the Catholic Church.A godparent or sponsor must be an active member of the church.Consider factors such as your relationships with the godparents or sponsors and their commitment to guiding the person in the faith or even being there if something should happen to the parents.If your first choice declines, make several godparent or sponsor choices.If they are willing to act in this capacity, ask the prospective godparents or sponsors.If she doesn't want to be a godparent or sponsor, respect her decision.
Step 5: Make a guest list.
People are likely to attend the ceremony and celebration.A list of definitive and possible guests is what you should make.Discuss the list with your spouse, godparents, or anyone else who is taking part in the ceremony.If it is adult-only or something for children, you should decide how many people you want to attend.If you include children, you might want child supervisors or activities to keep them busy.The number of guests you want to invite should fit into the church or party venue.
Step 6: Send out invites.
Depending on the formality of the event, you can either send out invitations or inform guests.Send out the invitations or information at least three to four weeks in advance so that people can rearrange their schedules to attend.If you are serving food, you should include RSVP cards so that you can get a head count on the ceremony.Inform guests if you have a gift policy.If you want people to enjoy the ceremony and celebration, you can write "no gifts, please" on the invitation.If children may attend, let your guests know.
Step 7: Incorporating traditions would be a good idea.
Family and faith traditions can be honored during abaptism.It's a good idea to include any elements you want in the ceremony to make it more special.You can say a specific prayer or choose a special gown.Discuss incorporating the traditions with your clergy member, who can help you plan where to use them.
Step 8: A photographer can be hired.
Depending on the formality of thebaptism, you may want to hire a photographer, a caterer, or even transportation.It is possible that these elements will help the day run more smoothly.Photos can be taken within the church.If you want professional photos, you should meet with a photographer.A friend or family member can take pictures of the day for you.
Step 9: Make sure to confirm the details.
Call the church or any other venue to confirm details a few days before the event.This can make sure everything is ready for the day.If something should happen to the church or clergy member, have contingency plans.
Step 10: It's a good idea to book a venue.
You can host a reception or meal after thebaptism to celebrate the day.You can either celebrate at the church or at a different venue.If children are attending, consider factors such as how many guests you are inviting as well as the audience.Every person should be accommodated at the venue.If you can find a location near the church, you and your guests can easily attend the celebration.
Step 11: Go to the menu.
Do you want to serve food or drink at the celebration?The menu should be compatible with the formality of the service.Decide if you want a buffet or sit down meal.Many Christians associate Jesus with lamb, so you may want to consider serving it.You may want a mix of adult and child-friendly foods if children are attending.If any children are attending, make sure to have options.Kids can eat chicken fingers, burgers, and fries.If alcohol is included in the day's events, you can either keep it alcohol-free or include it.You can meet with the staff of the restaurant or venue.Staff members can help you find the right celebration for you.You could hire a baker to make a special cake.Guests can choose from vegetarian, meat, or fish options.
Step 12: You should arrange for transportation.
It is possible to offer your guests transportation between the church and the party venue.It can help keep the group together.Ask about buses or limos when you meet with transportation companies.It is possible to hire local schools.You can ask guests to ride with one another.
Step 13: Accommodate for children.
If your child is going to be christened or you are an adult, make accommodations for them.You will need food that children can eat, as well as some fun activities for them to do while doing the service or meal.If you want to hire someone to look after the children in the nursery, ask the church.Children will eat certain foods if they are offered by the restaurant or the caterer.There are games and activities for your child guests.If you have a treasure hunt or board games, you could put them on a table for your guests.Hire a babysitter or supervisor for child guests.Everyone can enjoy the service and celebration without worrying about children causing trouble.
Step 14: The venue should be decorated.
Even if you're staying at the church, going home, or meeting at a restaurant, add some flair to the venue.Anything from flowers to small trinkets or even party favors can make the day feel more special and help you and your guests remember it.Discuss options with the florist.You can either keep it simple or have elaborate arrangements.The church and venue should be asked if and what type of decorations they allow.Party supply stores sell decorations.There are often religious-themed murals or trinkets that can help jazz up a table.Your guests will remember the day if you give them a favor.A small box of candy with the date is an option you may want to consider.
Step 15: Make your plans final.
You need to confirm the details of the ceremony at the same time as you finalize your venues and any distributors.This can help make sure that you don't have any last minute problems.In case of an emergency, have a list of venues, bakeries, and transportation services on hand.If you need it, ask your friends or family members to help.