There are moments in life that never repeat themselves, moments when heaven seems to descend to earth to bless new beginnings. One of these moments is baptism, the sacrament through which a soul enters the family of Christ and receives divine protection for the rest of life. Although it seems that everything takes place in a well-established setting (the church, the baptismal font, the white clothes, the prayers, and so on), each detail hides a deep meaning, a tradition inherited from generation to generation.
Among these details that give soul to the event are the crosses given to the guests, small but meaningful objects that, although sometimes go unnoticed, remain in the hearts of those who receive them. They are not simple accessories or symbolic gifts. They are the messengers of a holy day. What story do these crosses tell? What should parents and godparents know about them?
Why are crosses given to guests and what do they symbolize?
Giving crosses at baptism is a custom with deep roots in the Orthodox Christian tradition. The cross is the most important symbol of Christianity, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, divine love and the salvation of the soul. In the context of baptism, crosses symbolize divine protection over the newly baptized child, but also over those who participate in this sacred moment.
The crosses are given to the guests as a sign of thanks and blessing and become a religious souvenir of the event, carrying within them the prayer for the health and well-being of the little one. Often, they are blessed in the church during the service, which gives them an even greater spiritual value. In addition to their religious significance, the crosses are also a symbol of gratitude from the family organizing the baptism.
Types of crosses and how to choose them
Crosses can vary greatly in materials, design, and style. Here are some of the most popular options:
it Metal crosses – made of stainless steel, silver or plated alloys, these are durable and elegant;
it Wooden crosses – preferred for their simplicity and traditional look, they are often hand-carved;
it Personalized crosses – with the child's initials, baptism date, or a small message of thanks.
The color of the ribbon or holder can be chosen based on the child's gender (blue for boys, pink for girls), but also based on the theme of the event. It is important to choose crosses that are not only beautiful, but also easy to wear or keep as a keepsake.
When and how are the crosses offered?
Traditionally, crosses are given to guests on the day of the baptism, before or after the religious service. Sometimes, they are pinned to the guests' chests, hung with a safety pin, right at the entrance to the church. Other times, they are handed out during the festive meal, in a decorative envelope or alongside an icon or a personalized testimony.
The godmother is usually the one who is in charge of procuring the crosses and, if necessary, consecrating them before the event. Through this gesture, the godmother affirms the important spiritual role she plays in the life of the baptized child.
Other important religious symbols at baptism
In addition to the crosses, baptism includes a number of other symbolic elements, which contribute to the depth and beauty of the ritual:
it Baptism candle – symbolizes the light of faith and is carried by the godfather during the service;
it Myrrh cloth (christening cloth) – the child is wrapped after being removed from the baptismal font, a sign of cleanliness and a new beginning;
it White robes – represent the purity of soul acquired through the sacrament of baptism;
it Myrrh – used during the service, marking membership in the Christian faith.
All of these objects, like the crosses, have the role of strengthening the connection between the child and God and protecting his spiritual path from the beginning of life.
Complete list of items needed for baptism day
To make the baptism run smoothly and be a beautiful experience for everyone, it's important to prepare well in advance and have everything you need. Here's a detailed list of items you should have on hand:
Articles prepared by the godparents:
it Crosses for guests;
it Baptism candle;
it Baptism kit – white cloth, swaddling cloth, towel for the child, towel and soap for the priest, bottle of myrrh, box for the first strand and, last but not least, the box for better organization. Moreover, certain elements of the kit can be personalized, so that this set becomes unique and very special.
it Christening clothes for the baby;
it Birth certificate for the church.
Articles prepared by parents:
it Towel and diaper for the baby;
it Hygiene products (wipes, cream, diapers);
it Testimonials or small gifts for guests;
it Personalized envelopes or place cards;
it Toy.
Other optional things:
it Prayer book for the godfather;
it Icon with the child's patron saint;
it Thematic decorations for the church and the premises;
it Box for suitcase and accessories;
it Professional photographer and cameraman.
This list can guide you in organizing the event and will help you not to miss anything important.
Creative ideas for customizing crosses
If you want to give your guests a unique and memorable souvenir, you can personalize the crosses in various ways:
it Add a small label with the child's name and baptism date;
it You can attach them to a card decorated with a thank you message;
it Combine the crosses with a small icon or a sachet of lavender or incense;
it Choose a design that reflects the baptism theme – rustic, elegant, minimalist, or traditional.
Personalization adds a warm and thoughtful touch, and guests will feel the care and love put into every detail.
The crosses given at baptism are not simple accessories or symbolic gifts, but carry a deep spiritual and emotional value. They are the expression of the bond between faith, family and community, a symbol of the blessing and divine love poured out on the child. At the same time, they are a sign of gratitude towards those who chose to witness this unique moment. If you need help, do not hesitate to turn to the parenting counseling offered by AnneBebe, which will be by your side until the big event.
Preparing for a baptism involves many details, but with careful planning and an openness to the deep meanings of each gesture, this event becomes not just a ceremony, but a soulful memory that will last a lifetime. So, choose your crosses carefully, get involved with your soul in the organization, and let faith guide every step.
