How are older children baptized?

[lpalkki]

My husband and I were both baptized as infants. For various unfortunate reasons, neither of us had First Communion or were active in the Catholic faith. We have recently been moved by God and have joined a wonderful parish. Here is my question. We have two daughters, ages 16 months and 7 years. They will be baptized in our new church at the end of this month. I am so nervous about it.

I have no idea what the ettiquette is for their dress or the actual ceremony. I don’t want to make a fool of myself or be ignorant. Since they are older, do they wear their gowns before the actual ceremony? I’m guessing our 16-month-old will not be fully immersed, but have no idea what to expect. I realize this is not traditional, but we want this for our family and our daughters. Please help with any advice. Thank you!

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

Although there are Catholic parishes here and there that offer baptism by immersion, it is rare. Ordinarily, babies, children, and adults are baptized by pouring. Water is poured over the head while the person either bends over or is held over a baptismal font. As for dress, it is common for baptismal candidates to wear white, but that is not required. Your children may wear any suitable church clothes for the ceremony, and are not expected to change their clothes either before or after the ceremony. If you remain uncertain, ask your pastor or the staff of the parish for more details.