Difference Between Baptism and Christening
Baptism and Christening are the two significant catholic terms that are considered synonymous by some people as they are closely related to each other. Both of these religious rituals are carried out in the major catholic churches all across the globe. You can use these terms interchangeably, but it is always appreciated to find the main difference between Baptism and Christening in order to tell apart.
Instructions
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Baptism
Baptism is basically a Christian ritual in which ablution is conducted as a symbol of spiritual purification and sanctification. It is religious activity to welcome the new for accepting the faith (Christianity). Once an individual decides to accept Christianity, he or she will be immersed in water three times in the Church or simply water is poured over his/her head trice. It is must for individual to keep on reciting the words, "I Baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” during the cleaning process. After baptism, the new entrant is formally announced to be a “Christian.” -
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Christening
Christening is more or less like a Baptism as it revolves around the process of purification of soul. In this ritual, the newly born Christian babies are brought (introduced) to Jesus Christ in the Church and water is sprinkled on his/her face by the priest. Christening is considered very necessary ritual as it is considered an ultimate way to make sure that the new born is blessed by God throughout his/her life. After Christening, the baby’s name is officially announced in the Church, and the participant, in return, pray for new born’s strong relation with Jesus. -
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Differences Between Baptism and Christening
Although both of these ritual are all about Christianity, purification and an individual’s commitment to Jesus, but some of the main differences are as listed below:
- Christening is Infants’ purification and oath-taking ceremony while Baptism is adults’
- Baptism is a new entrant’s immersion in water for diminution of his/her sins and an open dedication to Christ. Christening, on the other hand, is a sprinkling of water by the priest and the parent’s commitment on their baby’s behalf to Christ.
- Baptism is a sort of sacrament (apology/forfeit) while Christening is a naming observance.
- Baptism is a fully grown individual’s personal decision to enter Christianity while Christening is an infant soul’s religious decision by his/her parents.
