Symbolism Behind Common Christening Gifts

Posted by damien fleming on March 5th, 2016

Godparents usually give christening gifts to symbolize their spiritual support for both the parents and the baptized child and, in so doing, bind them to the rights and responsibilities of their new status in the family’s life. 

Keep in mind that baptism gifts need not necessarily be expensive as the symbolism, even the thought, behind the items is what matters most. Your job as godparent, or even just as a guest to the baptism ceremony and reception, is to choose an appropriate gift to symbolize your unity with the parents as they embark on a new journey. Here are a few ideas that you can explore.

Cross-themed Items

Among Christians, the cross is the symbol of redemption and salvation. Your best bet then as a christening gift is a cross-themed item to symbolize the child’s entry into the Christian world. You can choose from several types of cross-themed items, which can also be your personalised baby giftsin the coming years (e.g., first birthday). 

• Christening cup with cross, which comes in beautiful and durable sterling silver. The cup usually has an embossed cross in its front so the parents can display it. 

• Rosary beads with cross, which is a valued item among Roman Catholics because of their devotion to the Virgin Mary. While the child may be unable to use it for several years, the parents can give it to him/her when he/she is older especially when they attends a Catholic school or prays with the rosary on a regular basis. 

The thing about sterling silver cross-themed items is their classic yet contemporary appeal. Even after several years, their aesthetic appeal remains while also gaining a sentimental value for the owners. 

Angel-themed items

In Christianity, angels have a special place. These purely spiritual beings, after all, are benevolent celestial beings who perform various roles including messengers of God and guardian spirits who protect and guide humans, among others. Indeed, when you are giving angel-themed items, such as a silver bookmarkwith angel engravings, you are in effect letting the parents know of your good intentions. 

You will find plenty of angel-themed items from baby-appropriate jewellery to small yet valuable figurines, as well as affordable items that will just be as meaningful as expensive ones. 

Whenever you are buying baptism gifts, you have to ensure that these are appropriate for the denomination. You should ask around about the best types of gifts since each Christian denomination will likely have different interpretations for the same thing, such as the difference between the Roman Catholic cross and the Russian Orthodox cross. Your thoughtfulness in the little details can mean the difference between a sincere gift and a rude present so pay attention.