The baptism of a child is a ritual with which many traditions, signs and ceremonies are associated. This is a very important moment in the life of an Orthodox person, so you need to thoroughly prepare for it.
Orthodox traditions of baptism
First you need to choose the godparents for the child. They do not have to be exactly two. If the godfather is only one, he must be of the same sex with his godson, that is, the godfather is necessary for the boy, and the mother, respectively, for the girl. Often, family friends are chosen as godparents, but one should not forget that you need to find an assistant and a spiritual mentor for your child, and for life. Therefore, choose reliable and decent people whose contribution to the upbringing of your son or daughter will be positive.
The stepmother or stepfather cannot be godparents, since the physical connection between the godmothers and the parents is considered a sin, which will later fall on the child. In addition, you can not choose to marry both a married couple and people between whom love relationships are possible / have. This will affect the fate of the child is not the best way.
Relatives, in turn, are allowed to become godparents. However, they will begin to help throughout life, and therefore it is advisable to find people who are not related to you. So you give your child a lot of help and protection.
Before baptism, the child’s family and godparents undergo communion in the church. The godfather gives the cross, and the mother gives the towel and a piece of cloth into which the child is wrapped after baptism.
