What are babies required to wear for Baptism?

[jmakualoha]

My two-week old son was just baptized this past Sunday in nothing but a white onesie/bodysuit with an embroidered cross on the front, white socks, and wrapped in a white christening blanket. Our Church didn’t have any set rules on how the baby is dressed. I’ve found after talking to several other Catholics that most babies in the end are wrapped up in a blanket anyway, even over their dressy christening outfits. In the photos/video, you couldn’t tell whether it was a regular christening gown/outfit or not. We were happy we kept it simple and basic instead of spending the $ for something that probably would not fit our son (who was under 7 pounds). It would be practical to re-use the items for our (God willing) future children’s baptisms. The christening bodysuit and blanket by Keepsake were both purchased for only $25 + tax at Babies R Us.

 

[puzzleannie]

I still think a diaper is a good idea!

no that actually contaminates water faster, unless it is the type made for swimming

I personally think, having witnessed baptisms in this style several times, it is a huge mistake, particularly with boy babies. plus the church that does this has their baptismal font in the back, with a fountain that runs (loudly) all the time, so people who sit back there must have a predictable subconscious reaction (I know I do) and do a lot of running back and forth to the lavatories.

 

[Phemie]

no that actually contaminates water faster, unless it is the type made for swimming

I personally think, having witnessed baptisms in this style several times, it is a huge mistake, particularly with boy babies.

We’ve been baptizing by immersion for about 7 years now and not once have we had a baby boy pee during the baptism. Considering that the Church has a preference for immersion (so says the rite) I think it behooves us to at least offer the option. We don’t have an immersion ‘font’ so if parents choose that option we use a big basket with a plastic liner to hold the water.

I don’t worry much about having a baby pee in the water – urine is sterile and the amount that would end up in the water would be so diluted as to be undetectable.