christening??

Question

my boyfriend's sister invited me to her daughter's Christening at the end of the month. I am from a non-religious family so I've never been to one. I know what they're all about and all of that good stuff but I wanted to know, are christening gifts expected? Its not a big deal if they are but if they aren't, I dont want to be the only one bringing a gift! If they are, what do you recommend? The baby is only a few months old. Thank you!!

Answer 1

I've never been to a christening (apart from my own) but I know I got gifts at mine. I think I got rosary beads, a cross wall hanging with a little girl praying next to it, and $100 from my uncle :-)

If I were you, I'd get her a small but nice gift such as a silver locket for when she is older or something like that.

Answer 2

It's not expected, but is kind. In conversation if the parents say no gifts, then use that as your out and give a card. My son was baptised earlier this year and he received a couple pewter piggy bank type keepsakes, a christening frame, My first prayer books, a pewter baptismal tube that holds the christening certificate. Even though you may come from a non-religious family you could give a gift that marks the special occassion.

Answer 3

It may not be a case of needing to offer a gift, just because you have been invited. Nobody expects you to bestow gifts on the baby but, I suppose a small gift would not go amiss and it doesn't have to have any religious connotations attached. Certainly, a congratulatory card.The people most likely taking or offering gifts will be parents, god-parents, grandparents and just plain well-wishers i.e. workmates and neighbours, so you most certainly won't be the only one. Enjoy the occasion with them in welcoming a new life into the world.

Answer 4

Some bring gifts, but I'm not sure all do. Usually, Christening gifts have some religious significance, so if you wanted to bring one, you could go to your local Christian bookstore and ask what would be appropriate.

Answer 5

It really depends on the family as to whether gifts are expected or not. A cross to hang on the wall in the baby's room would be nice or a child's first Bible or something like that. You could buy something small too, and keep it in your purse or something to see if others give gifts before you give yours. If no one else does, you could always give it after others have left and right before you do.

Answer 6

I always give money to such events. Of course use your judgement on how much your wallet can afford..I recently christen by son and some people gave him clothes gifts which was fine with me..It's really up to you what u would like to give..Dont' stress yourself about it..Enjoy the party..

Answer 7

I would bring a small gift ~ a nice little basket with lotion, powder, etc... with maybe some baby wash cloths would be a nice gift.


It's a nice gift for gosh sakes for someone who is from a non- religious family ~ a mom can always use these things - you can make it look very nice if you use your imagination. Everyone gives the traditional religious items be your own person and get creative.

Answer 8

Most of the time they are expected. You could get a Gift Certificate to a baby store, Newborns always need something. I usually get a $50.00 dollar bond from the bank, it will cost you $37.50 and he/she can have it when they grow up and meanwhile it will be getting interest all this time.

Answer 9

I'm catholic and is not your obligation to bring a present but usually people do, that's the costume. But just a small gift, just to be nice...maybe a pj or a blanket,something not too expensive and nice....the idea of someone with the basket with powder and stuff was nice too.

Answer 10

your boyfriend should be able to help you on this one... really religious families christen their kids to welcome them into the church and as such shouldn't expect gifts.... unfortunately its seen as the done thing to buy gifts. a white simple bible with the babies initials would be nice or small piece silver jewellery.. enjoy yourself x