An Orthodox Christening, or baptism, is a significant and beautiful sacrament that marks a child’s entry into the Church. Because the ceremony involves specific rituals—including immersion in water and anointing with holy oil—there are several physical items required to complete the service. Whether you are the parent or the chosen godparent, knowing which items to prepare ensures the day runs smoothly and remains focused on the spiritual significance of the event.
In the Orthodox tradition, the godparent (known as the Nounos or Nouna) typically provides most of the items used during the ceremony. However, parents and godparents usually work together to coordinate the styles and colors of these items. This guide provides a straightforward list of the essential Orthodox Christening items, their purposes, and tips for choosing the right ones.
The Baptismal Set (Lathopana)
The Lathopana is perhaps the most critical set of items for the ceremony. This set consists of the fabrics and garments that come into contact with the holy oil (Miron) used during the baptism. Because the oil is considered sacred, these items are treated with great respect.
A standard Lathopana set includes a large white sheet, one large bath towel, one small hand towel, and a set of white undergarments for the child. The large sheet is used to wrap the child immediately after they are removed from the baptismal font, protecting the godparent’s clothes from the oil. The large towel is used for drying the child, while the small towel is for the priest to dry his hands during the ceremony.
When selecting a Lathopana set, look for 100% cotton materials. Cotton is highly absorbent, which is necessary for soaking up the olive oil and water. Many sets are decorated with lace, embroidery, or small religious symbols, but the primary requirement is that the fabric is white to symbolize purity.
The Baptismal Cross
The baptismal cross is the most enduring item of the Christening. It is traditionally purchased by the godparent and is placed on the child by the priest after the baptism and chrismation. This cross is intended to be worn by the child for the rest of their life as a symbol of their faith.
Most Orthodox families choose crosses made of 14k or 18k gold, though silver is also a popular choice. The style can range from a simple, traditional plain cross to a more elaborate “Budded” or “Byzantine” design. It is important to choose a cross that is durable and of high quality, as it is a lifelong keepsake.
Along with the cross, you will need a matching chain. For infants, the chain should be strong enough to withstand occasional tugging but not so long that it poses a safety risk. Many godparents choose a standard length that the child can grow into over time.
The Baptismal Candle (Lambada)
The Lambada is a large, decorated candle held by the godparent during the ceremony. It represents the light of Christ and the spiritual enlightenment of the newly baptized person. Traditionally, this candle is quite large, often between 24 and 36 inches in length.
The decoration of the candle usually matches the theme or color scheme of the baptism. Common decorations include silk ribbons, tulle, small icons, or floral arrangements. While the large candle is for the godparent, some traditions also include two smaller matching candles for the children who may participate in the procession around the font.
When purchasing a Lambada, ensure it is made of high-quality wax that will not drip excessively. Since the godparent will be holding the candle for a significant portion of the service, it should be comfortable to grip and not overly heavy.
The Christening Outfit
Following the immersion in the font, the child is dressed in a brand-new white outfit. This signifies a fresh start and a life of purity within the Church. The outfit should be complete, including the main garment, socks, shoes, and a hat or bonnet if desired.
For boys, this is often a white suit, romper, or traditional gown. For girls, a white dress with layers of tulle or silk is common. It is helpful to choose an outfit that is easy to put on quickly, as the child will be wet and oily when it is time to get dressed.
Remember that the undergarments from the Lathopana set go on first to protect the formal outfit from the oil. Ensure the shoes are soft-soled for infants, as they are mostly symbolic during the ceremony since the child will be carried.
Oil Bottle and Soap
To perform the sacrament, the priest requires olive oil and a way to wash his hands afterward. The godparent typically provides a small ornamental bottle filled with pure olive oil. This oil is blessed by the priest during the service before being applied to the child.
A small bar of soap is also required. The priest uses this soap to wash the oil from his hands after the anointing. Many baptismal sets include a matching oil bottle and a small soap dish or pouch to keep these items organized on the table next to the font.
After the ceremony, the remaining oil in the bottle is often taken home by the parents. It can be used in the child’s bathwater or for a home vigil lamp, as it has been blessed during the service.
Martyrika (Witness Pins)
Martyrika are small lapel pins or bracelets given to the guests at the end of the ceremony. These serve as a token of the guests’ role as witnesses to the baptism. The word “Martyrika” literally translates to “witnesses.”
These items usually consist of a small cross attached to a ribbon or a piece of cord. They are often white, blue, or pink, depending on the child’s gender or the event’s theme. A small safety pin is usually attached to the back so guests can wear them during the reception.
While not strictly a liturgical requirement, Martyrika are a deeply ingrained cultural tradition in many Orthodox communities. They are a simple way to thank guests for attending and provide them with a small memento of the day.
Summary Checklist for Godparents
If you have been asked to be a godparent, use this checklist to ensure you have everything ready for the church:
- The Cross: Gold or silver cross and chain.
- The Lambada: One large decorated candle.
- Lathopana Set: One large towel, one small towel, one white sheet, and white undergarments.
- The Outfit: A complete white suit or dress, including shoes and socks.
- Oil and Soap: A small bottle of olive oil and a bar of soap.
- Martyrika: Enough witness pins for all invited guests.
Caring for Items After the Ceremony
Because the Lathopana and the undergarments are covered in holy oil, they should not be washed in a standard washing machine immediately. The water used to wash these items should not go down a common drain into the sewer system.
The traditional method is to hand-wash the items in a basin and pour the water into a garden, at the base of a tree, or in a place where people do not walk. Once the majority of the oil is removed through this respectful process, the items can be laundered normally. The baptismal gown and towels are often kept as family heirlooms.
Preparing for an Orthodox Christening is a journey of both faith and organization. By gathering these essential items in advance, you can ensure that the ceremony is conducted with the proper reverence and beauty. If you found this guide helpful, explore our other articles on family traditions and milestone celebrations to help you navigate life’s most important moments.