5 Tips for Intimate Baptism Preparations

Social events has been reopening in the country, and households are once again including face-to-face (F2F) celebrations as part of their regular bonding activities. These days, if you are not part of the celebrant’s side, you are probably, a guest! In either case, it’s a joy to be reunited with loved ones.

When the revered triad of time, health and responsibilities fall neatly on a wide open plate, my goodness! Please do take a bite by saying yes to invitations (unless of course you are introverting to recharge)! You might not realize that loneliness waved hello, until you get out of your cave and start seeing your people again! Warm hugs for huggers; Coupled with and nods, acknowledgements and good food for the rest of the world- hehe!

Anyway, I decided to come up with my (personal) TOP 5 list, to aid those who are preparing for their family’s baptisms as of this writing. I’ve talked to quite a number of moms asking how the new protocols are, and what I can say is only based from experience. I hope it’s helpful to a soul or two. 🙂 This is specially written for moms and dads.

1. Choose a Church that’s near or dear to you

Convenience is King! With the traffic starting to build up in the city, due to simultaneous social events happening on weekends, it’s no surprise that some people may become late. While waking up earlier may solve the FILIPINO-TIME problem, kids and babies (and Jesus), are the main event. It would be nice if the baby is able to take a proper nap before the ceremony, so that energy levels are protected. If it’s near your home, that would be better!

If there is a church too that has sung the anthem of your heart for so long, choose that church so you’ll always be reminded of God’s faithfulness in your life!

2. Bring your “Baptism Kit”

A what? There’s no such thing as a baptism kit. 🙂 But, if you’re the type who thrives better with lists, here’s what you can work with.

• Baby’s baptismal gown/ outfit
• Candles (plain or decorated)
• Christening hat (apparently not required, but some like it paired with the baptismal gown for those into heirlooms)
• Physical or printed Invites (not required, but cute)
• Shoes (not part of the ceremony, but cute ^______^)

3. Take your Time

it’s best to come 30 minutes before the official start of your baptismal time slot at the church, so that you can hang out with the greeters! Some of your loved ones may be seeing your child for the first time 🙂 30 minutes, is just 3 (ten minutes). With the amount of love and attention you’ll be receiving from ‘typical’ Filipino families, excited ninangs & ninongs and grand parents… that’s going to be a short wait 🙂

4. Keep your guest list lean

As of this writing, Covid restrictions are now easing but… vaccines for little ones are yet to come. This is just a precaution, but really it makes way for more quality time and quality interactions, and quality conversations with your guests too. There is beauty in small events, you’ll remember more when you’re not too pre-occupied or spinning around to accommodate persons who are special to you.

5. Reserve Meeting Rooms or Make House Parties

It’s great that so many restaurants have remodeled their interiors to make it Pinterest & IG worthy for small events. Sometimes, you don’t even need to bring in your own props and decorations to make your event extra special. But those places do have have time-limit. For tiny crowds who love to talk (and talk, and talk!) You might consider holding a house party instead. 🙂 You’ll definitely have memories with a homey vibe…literally!

Final Question: Mask on or Mask Off?

For safety purposes, masks are still requested inside the baptistry. Requested, but not required unless provided in the Church’s safety standards usually indicated (posted) in the room. My take? It’s up to you. Of course, emotions are better seen when the full face is shown.

But it’s up to you (the subject) if you would like to be wearing a mask during the ceremony. You may kindly request your guests to wear their masks, or take them off for a few clicks during group photos. To “help” the Holy Spirit in blessing and protecting all attendees, it is best to only come to the baptism when your health condition is not in a compromised state (no symptoms, generally well rested).

That’s it! I hope you enjoyed this article! 🙂 See you soon!