| Finding special suits for baptisms, | | | | christening gown for both boys and girls. The |
| christenings, and other ceremonies | | | | girls' gowns may be smocked and are typically |
| | | | longer and more "dress-like" than those worn |
| Religious ceremonies, celebrations, and | | | | by boys. In both cases the gown is typically |
| occasions are a big part of a newborn baby's | | | | white, symbolizing innocence and the purity |
| life in many families. Naming ceremonies, | | | | of the child's spirit as his parents dedicate |
| christenings, baptisms, and dedications | | | | his or her life to God and promise to raise |
| ceremonies carry a degree of importance in | | | | the child "in the word of God." These |
| the lives of followers of many different | | | | ceremonies are typical of many Christian |
| religions and are generally considered to be | | | | denominations, most notably the various forms |
| special occasions of some importance. When | | | | of Catholicism. |
| planning one of these events there are many | | | | |
| details that the parents of the child | | | | Naming Ceremonies |
| involved must consider, not the least of | | | | |
| which is what the baby should wear to the | | | | Naming ceremonies appear in the practices of |
| event. Some religions require that a form of | | | | many religions and nationalities. The |
| traditional garb be worn by the infant while | | | | practice dates to ancient times when a new |
| others leave the choice up to the parents. In | | | | life was considered to be a gift from the |
| either case the occasion demands that the | | | | gods. In most modern naming ceremonies there |
| choice of the baby's clothing be something | | | | is no specific required outfit, with the |
| special that represents the importance of the | | | | appropriate attire for the child being a |
| event. | | | | white or pale blue suit or gown of silk or |
| | | | some other fine fabric. Due to the delicacy, |
| Christening | | | | expense, and significance of these articles, |
| | | | they are seldom worn more than the one time. |
| Christenings and baptisms typically involve a | | | | |