For Orthodox believers, the day of the sacrament of holy baptism is a special holiday. There is a tradition directly on the day a person joins the Church or on the anniversary to give gifts to his godchildren.
Godparents, otherwise referred to as perceivers, should be direct participants in the sacrament of the baptism of children under the age of seven years (infants). The participation of the godparents in the priesthood means great responsibility and imposes certain duties regarding the upbringing of the child in the Orthodox faith.
In Orthodox culture, it is customary to give gifts on the day of holy baptism to your godchildren and godchildren. Sometimes adults may wonder what to choose as a gift. It is worth considering that the day of christening, first of all, is a holy, spiritual holiday. Therefore, the gift should correspond to the Orthodox culture and life of a person who has joined the Church.
Most often, an icon is chosen as a gift to godchildren (godchildren). The holy image can reflect the face of the Savior (if the boy is baptized) or the face of the Mother of God (when the girls are baptized). The tradition of giving the icon of a nominal saint is also widespread. So, if the name of the godson is Sergey, it is quite relevant to present the newly-made Christian (or his parents, if the child is still a baby) the image of St. Sergius of Radonezh or another ascetic with the same name, whose memory falls first since the sacrament.
Sometimes crosses are given to godchildren and godchildren. It is worth considering that for a child it is necessary to choose small crucifixes. It is important that the cross is executed in Orthodox canons and consecrated in the church. If a crucifix is bought at a jewelry store, it is necessary to consecrate the symbol of the victory of Christianity in the church.
If the child already knows how to read, then the christening can be presented with a children's Bible or the Law of God (for family and school). Reading the Holy Scriptures is especially useful for a newly made Orthodox person. In addition, a children's prayer book can be presented as a gift.
Adult godchildren (instances of the perception of mature people also take place) can be given spiritual literature of a more serious content. This includes the creations of saints, collections of sermons by famous theologians and pastors, and interpretations of the Holy Scriptures. If a person does not have a Bible, then this “book of books” will be a great gift.
If a person loves sacred music, it would be logical to donate any audio production dedicated to spiritual songs.
Also, adult godchildren can be given Orthodox medallions, incense and other shrines that are worn along with the crucifix on the body.
