Baptism Question

jdnemmer

I have a confession - I don't know enough about baptisms! MIL requested we do it for DD. We chose godparents and the ceremony is this weekend. I'm actually really surprised we haven't had any counseling from the priest - what do I need to do on the day? What will the Godparents be expected to do during the ceremony?

Helmet3311

We just went through the same thing.  DH and his family are Cathiolic (I am not), so I was clueless about how to plan for the day.  I was shocked when the only "preparation" was showing up to the church 15 minutes early. I kept asking my husband if he was sure he wasn't forgetting to tell me something.  Turns out the priest walks you and the godparents through the ceremony step by step.  It'll be fine

sbmp10

Yup just show up and bring the check book:) Our church expects you to make a donation.  There is no fee per say but they do expect money. I think we gave $100. 

meltoine

Some dioceses require a class, others don't. Mine did. Are you asking about the ceremony logistics or the meaning behind it?

Logistically, the priest will walk you through everything as you go. Each priest does the ceremony his own way, but basically, there will be reading from the bible and then the Rite of Baptism. During the Rite, the priest will bless the child, pour holy water on his/her head, say "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.", and absolve the baby of original sin.

The meaning behind it is that last part- the absolution. Original sin is our "imperfection" as human beings, the fact that we do make mistakes and commit sins. When God created Adam and Eve, they were perfect, but because they sinned, all humans have a propensity to sin. The baptism ceremony is, in effect, God's way of saying "It's okay that you sin, I love you anyway and you are still one of my children." 

ETA: Godparents - these are two people who agree to look out for the spiritual well-being of your child. They are obligated to make sure you are raising LO in the faith and helping him/her become a good Catholic. If you're not doing it, they're supposed to take over.

That said, most people don't take the definition that seriously anymore. For the most part, modern godparents are just supposed to be a part of the child's life and love him/her. Also, it has nothing to do with who takes custody of your children if you die. This is a myth that hold no truth.

During the ceremony, the godparents will stand with you and your H and promise the same things you promise; to raise the child in the faith. Some priests have the godmother hold the baby while he does the anointing with holy water. Mine didn't. I held DS for that part. Some will give you the choice.  

jdnemmer

Good answers. I feel more calm now.

etude de la vie

We were required to take a class with the godparents and give a donation. 

We had to give $500 "donation" and it is customary to give the priest a little extra too!