I'm an atheist so i don't really know what is etiquette for these functions.
If i do get something for the baby, i don't want to get him anything religious, do you have any ideas for a good NON-christian gift?
As much as i would like to get something anti-religious, i will be avoiding this, so sensible answers only please.
I'm also a tightar*e so if a gift is not required let me know...
Thanks all.
2006-12-05 14:59:42 · 14 answers · asked by ants79 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
You don't have to buy anything religious, thoug many religious people do. You might get some sort of keepsake that means something to you, that you expect the child to keep when they get older. Or, you could get any sort of baby gift that you would give for any other occasion, such as a birthday.
You are not being invited because they wish you to convert, but becausy you are a special person to that family. I doubt that they expect you to behave "religiously", but they are sharing a very special moment in their lives with you. Act within your beliefs and with dignity, respecting the solemnity of the occasion, but without compromising your own beliefs. True dignity is being able to honor the beliefs of others without compromising your own.
2006-12-05 15:06:55 · answer #1 · answered by Deirdre H 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Yes, buy him Why I am not a Christian by Bertand Russell.
(Just kidding.)
Seriously, maybe you could just buy a nice card that you paid a little extra for and not worry about a gift. Especially if you don't know the people that well. I'm not sure a gift is even required either. I have never heard that one was for a christening.
I think the ideas of a pair of booties or a teddy bear above are good, too, though. Buying something "at least $90" seems totally inaccurate. Think freddy's just winding you up.
2006-12-05 23:59:22 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Cause you should buy a small gift
it doesn't have to be anything religious
buy a nice baby mug or feeding dish or baby spoon etc or even a nice story book even a piece of clothing or a nice toy that will last
or a baby photo album
plus I would buy a Christening card so they will have it to keep
you will be getting a supper I suppose to follow the Christening
so don't be a meanie
2006-12-05 23:13:16 · answer #3 · answered by ausblue 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A gift would be nice but you are not compelled to give one.
It would not have to be expensive or religious. Just a nice keepsake that can be a memento of this special occasion. Even a pair of nicely made white frilly bootees would be nice!
Go to a baby or department store and look at almost anything in white or silver. Of course silver, though not overly expensive will cost more.
2006-12-05 23:18:24 · answer #4 · answered by mystique_1959 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't think you have to get a gift if you don't want to, although it would be a nice gesture. I do, however, think you should go to the christening with the right attitude. You must respect that the occasion is important to your friends and not worry about any religious connotations. If they're your friends, you'll wish them and their baby well and be happy for them all. It's also a compliment to you that they want you there.
2006-12-05 23:11:12 · answer #5 · answered by clarity 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
of course you do not have to buy a gift. a gift is always optional but i would definitely bring something to show your appreciation for being invited.
if you have a problem with their ceremony why don't you opt against going and just spend time with the baby later.
if you do go and want to give a gift how about a small toy or baby blanket. you could also get a picture frame or small photo album.
take care! SD
2006-12-05 23:06:42 · answer #6 · answered by SD 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It is customary, but not absolutely required, to bring a gift for the baby. A toy or book would be a non-religious and inexpensive gift.
2006-12-06 11:23:05 · answer #7 · answered by Adoptive Father 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, a gift is not required, you can buy a teddy bear or something like that if you want to. The parents will be glad you are there during this special occasion.
2006-12-05 23:09:51 · answer #8 · answered by mrs d 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, you don't want to get something ANTI-religious. The parents invited you to a thing of their faith, so you don't want to get something that could offend them.
I would suggest getting a gift, but nothing too expensive. Perhaps a small something that the child would enjoy, a baby toy or something.
2006-12-05 23:04:29 · answer #9 · answered by Bored. 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
get something of at least 90 dollars average.dont be cheap.also get a gift card for the parents and the priest.
2006-12-05 23:19:30 · answer #10 · answered by freddelorme35 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋