In the Orthodox Church, Baptism and Chrismation are not symbols — they are real and living mysteries. Just as Christ was baptized in the Jordan, we also descend into the water and rise again into new life. This is not only a personal moment — it is a communal mystery, as the newly illumined is welcomed into the life of the Church.
Together, they mark:
Chrismation (anointing with Holy Chrism) immediately follows Baptism and bestows the gift of the Holy Spirit, just as the Apostles laid hands on the newly baptized in the early Church (Acts 8:14–17). In Orthodox tradition, Baptism and Chrismation are always celebrated together as a unified entrance into the life of Christ.
Preparation for Baptism and Chrismation is both spiritual and practical. The steps differ slightly for children and adults, but all share a common foundation of faith, reverence, and community.
Meeting with the Priest
Parents and godparents will meet with Father to:
Discuss the meaning of the sacraments
Go over what to expect during the service
Understand their spiritual responsibilities
Attending Church
Families are encouraged to begin attending the Divine Liturgy regularly.
The Church is not just a place for Baptism — it is the home where the child will be raised spiritually.
Choosing a Godparent (Sponsor)
The sponsor must be:
Catechism Period
Adults preparing for Baptism or Chrismation will enter a time of study, prayer, and participation, including:
Regular attendance at Sunday Divine Liturgy
Participation in Bible studies and catechism classes
Meetings with the priest to understand the faith and sacraments
Sponsors (Godparents)
Adults will also require a sponsor in good standing who will support them in their Orthodox life.
This person should be someone spiritually mature and actively living the Orthodox faith.
Confession and Preparation
Before receiving the sacraments, adult candidates will:
Prepare through Holy Confession
Fast and pray in the days leading up to their baptism/chrismation This period allows the heart to open fully to God’s grace.
A detailed checklist will be provided during preparation.
White Baptismal Outfit
Baptismal Cross
Baptismal Candle
Sheet, Towels, Oil, etc
The sponsor (on behalf of the child, or the adult candidate directly) renounces Satan and confesses faith in Christ.
The priest prays for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the baptismal font.
The person is anointed with blessed olive oil — the “oil of gladness” — symbolizing healing and spiritual protection.
In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the person is immersed three times in the font — dying and rising with Christ.
Immediately after, the newly baptized is sealed with Holy Chrism, receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The newly illumined is clothed in white, symbolizing purity and new life, and receives a candle — a sign of the light of Christ.
The newly baptized, regardless of age, receives the Holy Eucharist during the next Divine Liturgy — their first participation in the full life of the Church.
Baptism is not an ending — it is the beginning of a new life in Christ. All who are baptized into the Orthodox Church are called to:
Attend the Divine Liturgy regularly
Confess and receive Communion faithfully
Pray daily, fast, and grow in love for God and neighbor
Participate in parish life through ministries, service, and stewardship
Raise children in the faith, guided by the Church and godparents
To be baptized into the Church is to be joined to the Body of Christ. This means becoming part of the local parish family, not just as a guest, but as an active member. Ongoing time, service, and financial stewardship help sustain the community that sustains you. If you are not yet a member of the parish, we invite you to speak with Fr. Theodoros or a member of the Parish Council to learn how to join our spiritual family.
To begin preparing for your Orthodox baptism at Holy Cross – St. Nektarios, please contact:
(705) 726-9875
StNektariosGOC@gmail.com
We are here to walk with you every step of the way.
