First Choices in Life with Godparents
The breaking of the cake and the cutting of the cake mark the child's first birthday and symbolize the transition to a new stage of life. Through these ceremonies, parents, grandparents and godparents express their hopes and wishes for the child's future. In this guide, we'll explore the meanings of each item on the moot tray, the stages of the ceremony, and the traditions, providing a memorable and meaningful experience.
In the Romanian tradition, the breaking of the cake and the cutting of the motu usually take place at the turn of the year. This age is chosen because it marks the end of the first year of life, a year full of significant changes and developments for the child. At one year, the child begins to become more independent, learn to walk and talk, and the ceremony of breaking the cake or cutting the motz symbolizes the transition to this new stage of growth and development. In some regions, however, these ceremonies may take place later (3 years for boys), depending on local and family customs.
Download the complete Guide for Breaking the Cake and Cutting the Motto HERE
The godparents, the child's spiritual parents, play an essential role in the ceremony. They prepare the tray and are responsible for breaking the cake and cutting the cake. The godparents must bring stylish new clothes for the child, symbolizing a new beginning.
Duties of Godparents
Preparing the token tray: The godparents carefully arrange the cake pan, choosing the symbolic objects that will influence the child's future. Each object has a special meaning, reflecting various qualities and skills.
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For little girls, the tradition is represented by the Breaking of the cake: The godmother breaks the cake above the child's head, symbolizing the blessing and luck that pours on him. After the cake is broken, the pieces are divided among the guests, each piece being considered a bringer of good luck and blessing. Then, the Godmother together with the Godfather will tie a red ribbon around a small strand of hair on the child's head, thus forming the strand that will be cut. The red ribbon symbolizes protection and luck, red being associated with vitality, energy and passion, qualities that parents and godparents want for the girl's future. The godmother then cuts this strand, marking the girl's transition to a new stage of life and a time of growth and maturation. After the strand is cut, it is glued onto a silver coin with wax from the baptismal candle.
For boys, the tradition is represented by Cutting the Hair: The Godfather together with the Godmother will tie a ribbon, usually blue, around a small strand of hair on the boy's head, thus forming the strand that will be cut. The blue ribbon used in the ceremony symbolizes protection and luck, blue being associated with calmness, wisdom and stability, qualities that parents and godparents want for the boy's future. After the ribbon is tied and the strand is formed, the godfather cuts the strand of hair and glues it to a silver coin with wax from the baptismal candle.
Meaning of Objects
Silver Coin: It is used to hold the strand of hair because it has a special meaning. Silver is a precious and pure metal and symbolizes value and light in a child's life. Through this gesture, parents and godparents express their wish that the little one be surrounded by luck, prosperity and protection. The coin becomes a talisman, meant to bring blessing and protect the child from evil.
Baptism candle: During the ceremony, it is recommended to light the candle from the child's baptism. It brings a warm and gentle light, symbolizing divine protection and continued love. The wax of this special candle will be used to attach the strand of hair to the silver coin, thus preserving the connection to the holy moment of baptism. This beautiful tradition adds extra warmth and meaning to the moment, remembering the love and blessing that accompanies the child from the beginning of his life.
Boys Baptism Candles -> SEE HERE
Baptism Candles Girls -> SEE HERE
The little girl's birthday cake: The godmother has a special and careful task for preparing or purchasing the cake for the little girl. This cake, often affectionately called "roll" or "pie", is more than just bread, it is a symbol of the richness and sweetness of life, beautifully decorated with nuts, raisins and honey. The chosen ingredients are not only decorative, they are loaded with deep meanings, representing the wishes of prosperity and joy for the little girl. The cake, prepared from leavened dough and usually sweet, has a round shape, like the sun, symbolizing the cyclicality of life and continuity. The round shape also evokes the idea of balance, reflecting hopes for a bright and harmonious future.
Moç Tray: It is prepared with a lot of care and love by the godmother, being loaded with symbols and meanings for the child's future. Various objects are carefully placed on the tray: a pen, a book, money, a comb, a mirror and others, each suggesting luck and different abilities, inclinations and possible careers. After cutting the motzi, in a moment full of emotion and joy, the child is invited to choose three objects from the tray, and these choices are interpreted by family and friends as signs of his luck, talents and future.
AnneBebe Grandfather Tray – A Beginning of a Story with the Godparents
It is good to say a greeting when you present the baby tray. One of the most popular wishes in the Romanian tradition is: "Choose with an open heart and wisdom from this tray!" May every thing bring you luck, joy and success in life. May you grow up healthy, happy and follow your dreams with courage! We will always be by your side, supporting you every step of the way!"
Included Objects and Meanings
- Scissors: The choice of scissors indicates an inclination towards jobs related to beautification, precision and creativity, such as hairstylist, fashion designer or tailor.
- What is said: "To have skillful hands and to create beautiful things to make the world happy."
- Motif Box and Ribbon: Her choice represents purity, protection and care. The choice of this object can indicate a future in which the child will be a protector of moral and spiritual values.
- What is said: "May you always be protected by angels and spread good around you."
- The mirror: Her choice symbolizes self-reflection, beauty and truth. The choice of the mirror may suggest an inclination towards a career in the artistic field or where personal image is important.
- What is said: "To know yourself and spread beauty and truth in the world."
- Brush/Comb: His choice indicates a special attention to personal appearance and grooming. This item may suggest a career in fashion and style related fields.
- What is said: "Take care of yourself and always be neat and elegant."
- Prayer Book ("Soul Book for the Little Ones") Her choice symbolizes closeness to faith, spirituality and solid moral values. It can indicate a future where the child will be guided by strong ethical principles.
- What is said: "Have faith in God and always follow the right path."
- Card game with trades: Choosing a game of trades can suggest curiosity and a desire to explore different careers. This object indicates flexibility and openness to new experiences.
- What is said: "Be curious and explore all the opportunities that life offers you."
- Icon: Her choice symbolizes divine protection and connection to faith. Choosing it can suggest a spiritual life and a strong connection to religious values.
- What is said: "May you always be protected by the divinity and receive blessings."
- White pen: His choice indicates an inclination towards writing, literature, journalism or business. This object symbolizes intellect and effective communication.
- What is said: "To have the talent to express valuable ideas and to be successful in everything you write."
- Moç Tray: Using a velvet tray for this ceremony adds extra elegance and sophistication to this special moment in the child's life. Velvet, known for its soft texture and luxurious appearance, symbolizes care and respect for the child's touch and choices. By using velvet, a wish for a prosperous and blessed future is also conveyed, offering a touch of elegance and uniqueness.
Additional Objects and Meanings
- Keys to an Apartment or Travel Guide: Their choice may suggest a career in AirBnB property management or tourism.
- What is said: "Providing hospitality and creating unforgettable experiences for travelers."
- Webcam: His choice may suggest a career in the video blogging industry, where communication and personal presentation are essential.
- What is said: "Be confident in yourself and excel in communication."
- Keyboard: The choice symbolizes a career in software development, indicating analytical and technical skills.
- What is said: "To create technologies that change the world and to continuously innovate."
- Smartphone: His choice may suggest a career in blogging, where instant creativity and expressiveness are key.
- What is said: "To share your thoughts and inspire people with your words."
- Tablet or Business Cards: The choice can symbolize a career in online marketing, reflecting promotion skills and digital strategies.
- What is said: "Getting the world's attention and creating successful campaigns."
- Camera: The choice may represent a career in photography, signifying an eye for detail and visual creativity.
- What is said: "Capturing beautiful moments and creating unforgettable memories."
- Motivational letter: The choice may indicate a career as a motivational trainer, reflecting public speaking skills and inspiration.
- What is said: "To inspire and motivate people to reach their full potential."
- Drawing ruler or boards: Their choice may suggest a career in architecture, where creativity and the ability to plan and structure are essential.
- What is said: "To create impressive structures and shape the urban landscapes of the future."
- Key to safe or check book: Their choice may suggest a career in banking, symbolizing financial and resource management skills.
- What is said: "To be successful in finance and skillfully manage resources and wealth."
- Lipstick and eyeshadows: Their choice indicates an inclination towards jobs related to beauty and cosmetology.
- What is said: "To have a developed aesthetic sense and to beautify the lives of those around you."
- Sewing tape or centimeter: Their choice suggests an inclination towards tailoring, fashion or clothing design.
- What is said: "To create wonderful things that bring joy and style."
- Minicomputer: His choice indicates an inclination towards the exact sciences, engineering or technology.
- What is said: "To have a sharp mind and achieve technological innovations."
- Musical instrument: His choice suggests a musical talent and the possibility of a career in music.
- What is said: "To have a musical gift that delights and inspires."
- Stethoscope or syringe: Their choice points to a career in medicine or health-related fields.
- What is said: "Take care of the health of those around you and bring healing."
- Car key: Their choice suggests independence, mobility and material success.
- What is said: "To be free to explore the world and to be prosperous."
- Paper banknote or silver/gold coin: Their choice indicates a prosperous future and financial success.
- What is said: "To have wealth and enjoy financial success."
- Godmother's (girls)/Godfather's (boys) wedding ring: Their choice suggests a stable life and strong family relationships.
- What is said: "To have a life full of love and stability."
- Mouse: His choice indicates a career in IT or other technology-related fields.
- What is said: "To be successful in the digital world and to innovate in technology."
- Microphone: His choice suggests a career in music, television or radio.
- What is said: "To have a powerful voice and delight audiences."
- Playing Cards: Their choice suggests a life full of adventure and perhaps a career in entertainment.
- What is said: "Have fun and enjoy every moment."
- Police Badge: His choice points to a career in law enforcement or justice.
- What is said: "Be a defender of justice and take care of the safety of those around you."
- Kitchen wire: His choice suggests a penchant for gastronomy and the culinary trades.
- What is said: "To have talent in the kitchen and to bring joy through your dishes."
Many families prefer to associate these rituals with the blessing of a priest, who can offer prayers and a blessing for the child. Thus, the ceremony acquires a spiritual dimension and is seen as a continuation of the baptism with the spiritual parents.
The breaking of the cake and the cutting of the cake are moments full of warmth and happiness, bringing family (parents, godparents and grandparents) and friends together to celebrate the baby's first steps in life. These traditions allow godparents to express their love and well wishes for their son, creating a deep and lasting bond. Godparents, in their role as spiritual parents, send the child messages of encouragement and support, promising to always be by his side, with love and guidance. May these rituals bring you joy and fulfillment, strengthening family bonds and leaving unforgettable memories that will be cherished forever.
