Every parent carries the weight of bringing life into the world, and the Orthodox Church guides us with clarity and compassion in these questions. Children are a gift from God, not possessions, and our responsibility is to care for their souls from the very beginning.
At What Age Should a Child Be Baptized?
In the Orthodox Church, baptism should not be delayed. A newborn can and should be baptized as soon as the mother and child are able to come to church safely. In traditional practice, baptism takes place within 40 days, after the mother’s churching prayers.
The child is brought into the life of Christ early, not waiting until they are "old enough to decide".
Parents make the vows, and the godparents stand as spiritual guardians. From that moment, the child is a full member of the Body of Christ, receiving Holy Communion with everyone else.
Preparing for Baptism
When preparing for baptism, a few things are necessary, while others are local customs or family choices:
- Godparents - Choose Orthodox godparents who are practicing their faith. They are not honorary figures but spiritual parents, responsible for guiding the child in prayer and example.
- Baptismal clothes - Usually a simple white garment (symbol of purity and new life). This can be plain and modest, not a fashion show.
- Cross - Traditionally, the godparent gifts a baptismal cross. It can be silver or gold; what matters is that it bears the holy Cross, not luxury. The child should wear it for life.
- Candles, oil, towel - In most parishes, these are prepared by the family or godparents according to local custom.
Speak with your priest beforehand to know the local expectations and to prepare spiritually with prayer and confession.
When Should My Child Come to Church?
Children belong in the Divine Liturgy from the start. Even babies are brought to the chalice to receive Communion. There is no "too young".
They may cry, move around, or fuss. That is normal. The Church is their home. Bringing them often, even when it feels difficult, plants the habit of prayer and worship deep in their soul.
What If My Child Has ADHD, Autism, or Doesn’t Sit Still?
The Church does not exclude children who struggle with attention or behavior. Every child is created in God’s image and belongs in His house.
- Speak with your priest about any special needs. Many priests are patient and understanding.
- Bring small prayer ropes, picture books of saints, or let the child help hold a candle.
- Stand near the back if you need to step out briefly, but always return.
- Don’t feel shame. No one expects children to behave like adults.
The presence of your child in church, however restless, is itself a prayer.
The Orthodox Church on Abortion
The Orthodox Church has always held that life begins at conception. The child in the womb is already a full human being, known and loved by God. For this reason, abortion is considered a grave sin, equal to taking any other life.
- Induced abortion (ending a pregnancy by choice or procedure) is condemned by the Church as the deliberate killing of a child. The canons speak strongly against it, though repentance and confession are always open for those who have fallen into this sin.
- Natural abortion (miscarriage) is not sin. It is a deep sorrow permitted by God’s providence. The Church comforts parents in such cases, often blessing prayers of healing and remembrance for the unborn child.
FAQ
Can I delay baptism until my child grows up and decides?
No. In Orthodoxy, baptism is entrance into the Church and salvation. We do not withhold Christ’s grace from children. Parents and godparents make the vows until the child grows into them.
What if my spouse is not Orthodox?
The child should still be baptized Orthodox. It is best if both parents agree, but salvation is not delayed because of mixed family situations. Speak to your priest for guidance.
Do I need a godparent?
Yes. Godparents are required. They must be Orthodox, practicing the faith, and ready to help raise the child in Christ.
What if I cannot afford gold for the baptismal cross?
Silver, wood, or even simple metal is acceptable. What matters is the Cross, not the material.
Can children with disabilities be baptized and commune?
Absolutely. Every child, regardless of condition, is made in the image of God and is to be baptized and brought to the Chalice.
Do babies really receive Communion?
Yes. From the moment of baptism, the child receives Holy Communion like every member of the Church.
Conclusion
Orthodox life is about raising children in holiness from their first breath. Abortion is rejected because every life is sacred, even in the womb. Baptism should not be delayed, for it is the child’s entrance into Christ’s Body. Families prepare with godparents, cross, and prayer, remembering that baptism is not tradition alone, but a mystery of salvation.
Bring children into church from the beginning, whether quiet or restless, with or without special needs. The prayer corner at home and the Divine Liturgy in church will shape them more than words ever can. In all things, trust God's mercy and remember: children are not ours, they are His — given to us for a time, to raise in faith, hope, and love.
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