How to plan a christening: 6 – 8 weeks prior – notify your parish
Christening checklist: when to notify your parish about the christening
As soon as the venue and date are set, you can register in person at your parish, preferably at least two months before your desired date.
You will need the following documents to register for the christening:
Birth certificate of the child
Parents' identity cards
Baptism certificates and, if applicable, marriage certificate of the parents
Baptism certificates of the godparents
Proof of church membership for parents and godparents
The church office or parish office will be happy to help you if you are unsure of exactly what you need.
How to plan a christening: 6 weeks prior – talk to your pastor
During the baptism interview, you will discuss the course of the ceremony together with the pastor. You can express your wishes, help to organise the baptism to a certain extent and discuss many important details together:
Questions that you can clarify during the baptism conversation:
What is your baptism quote? This verse from the Bible will accompany your child for a lifetime.
What music or songs are suitable for the christening? Whether traditional or modern, your choice will set the tone of the ceremony.
Can family and friends get involved? For example, by reading out a prayer or a blessing.
Are photos and filming allowed? If so, then clarify who will be doing this: a professional or a family member?
Christening candle and anointment? What is the procedure in your parish? Should you bring your own candle or does the congregation provide one?
Use the donations wisely. You can decide what to spend the donations on, such as for a charitable organisation or for your child's future education.
You are welcome to bring ideas, texts or a draft of how you want to structure the ceremony. This will make it easier to adapt the christening to your wishes.
How to plan a christening: 5 weeks prior – invite the guests
Now it is time to announce the big event. Inform your guests ahead of time about the date, time and place, with a homemade invitation by post or email:
Date, time and location of the christening
Meeting point and time of the after-party
Dress code (if desired)
If applicable, information on overnight accommodation for guests who have to travel
Creative ideas for DIY christening invitations
How to plan a christening: 4 weeks prior – plan the ceremony
After the christening, family and friends usually get together for a small celebration in honour of the little one. So, think about how you would like to end the day.
Christening checklist: important questions for planning a christening
Should the celebration be small and intimate or would you like to invite more people?
Champagne reception in the church? Make sure to ask ahead of time if this is permitted in your parishes.
Location & catering: whether at home, in a restaurant or in the garden, the main thing is that your child feels comfortable.
Celebrate in a child-friendly way: if you are expecting children to attend, it is best to set up a play corner or a colouring station so that they can have fun at the party.
Stick to your budget: decide in advance what you want to spend and keep an eye on your budget.
How to plan a christening: 2 weeks prior – finalise the details
Christening checklist: outfit for the child being baptised From classic christening dresses and formal outfits to cosy rompers with bows, go for comfort and style.
Find the perfect outfit for a christening
Christening checklist: decorations, candles, greeting cards & more:
Table decorations: determine the colour scheme and decoration concept (e.g. flowers, candles, Christian symbols)
Make place cards & menu cards or have them printed
Plan seating arrangements (particularly helpful for larger celebrations)
Prayer cards with a saying for all guests
Lay out a guest book or memory album for wishes and fond memories
Get party favours for guests (e.g. tea lights, seeds or candles)
Design a christening candle if necessary
Select music for the ceremony
Coordinate speeches or contributions (who will give a short speech or read a poem?)
Prepare a children's corner (organise small games, craft materials or books for the youngest guests)
Christening tips: more ideas for your christening ceremony
Are you looking for more ideas on how to make your christening party extra special? You'll find lots of creative ideas in the following articles, from the perfect christening outfit, DIY invitations and decorations to great gifts:
