Baptismal Anniversary
When children are baptised, the parents organise for the baptismal candle to have their child’s name and baptismal date on it. The top part of the candle has no markings on it, as it is to be lit during a prayer on the child’s birthday, baptismal anniversary, Christmas, Easter, Pentecost and other special occasions.
The candle is placed at home where the child can see it, and when old enough, the child can read it. Sometimes parents choose to have extra markings on the candle, such as a verse or ribbon or symbol of their culture.
If parents can’t find their own baptismal candles, they are asked to prepare candles for themselves too. This way children can see the parents lighting their baptismal anniversaries as well.
It is not just children who celebrate being part of God’s family, but parents too. If you can’t find your baptismal date, ask your family or write or email or phone the parish where you were baptised.
A prayer could be at evening meal. Show the photos of the baptismal day as the children get older.
It is wonderful when Godparents also enter into the spirit of celebrating their own baptismal dates. Children can see that their Godparents believe their faith is important.
Below is a blessing prayer published by Liturgy Brisbane.
Let us celebrate.
Fr Gerry Hefferan
Blessing Prayer Over the Child
Light the baptismal candle and make the sign of the cross together.
Parents:
We remember Jesus who gladly welcomed little children,
He put his arms around them, laid his hands on them and gave them his blessing.
As we look at you, N., we are so proud and happy.
We thank God for the wonderful gift he has given us.
Let us pray.
(Parents, Godparents and Grandparents place their hands on the child’s head or shoulders.)
Lord Jesus Christ,
You loved children so much that you said: ‘Whoever welcomes a child welcomes me’.
Hear our prayers and, with your unfailing care, watch over this child, N.,
Whom you have blessed with the grace of baptism.
When he/she has grown to maturity, may he/she be fervent in faith,
Strong in hope and generous in love.
May the God of gentleness and love bless N. and watch over him/her always. Amen
The candle is placed at home where the child can see it, and when old enough, the child can read it. Sometimes parents choose to have extra markings on the candle, such as a verse or ribbon or symbol of their culture.
If parents can’t find their own baptismal candles, they are asked to prepare candles for themselves too. This way children can see the parents lighting their baptismal anniversaries as well.
It is not just children who celebrate being part of God’s family, but parents too. If you can’t find your baptismal date, ask your family or write or email or phone the parish where you were baptised.
A prayer could be at evening meal. Show the photos of the baptismal day as the children get older.
It is wonderful when Godparents also enter into the spirit of celebrating their own baptismal dates. Children can see that their Godparents believe their faith is important.
Below is a blessing prayer published by Liturgy Brisbane.
Let us celebrate.
Fr Gerry Hefferan
Blessing Prayer Over the Child
Light the baptismal candle and make the sign of the cross together.
Parents:
We remember Jesus who gladly welcomed little children,
He put his arms around them, laid his hands on them and gave them his blessing.
As we look at you, N., we are so proud and happy.
We thank God for the wonderful gift he has given us.
Let us pray.
(Parents, Godparents and Grandparents place their hands on the child’s head or shoulders.)
Lord Jesus Christ,
You loved children so much that you said: ‘Whoever welcomes a child welcomes me’.
Hear our prayers and, with your unfailing care, watch over this child, N.,
Whom you have blessed with the grace of baptism.
When he/she has grown to maturity, may he/she be fervent in faith,
Strong in hope and generous in love.
May the God of gentleness and love bless N. and watch over him/her always. Amen
Prayer from “Our Family Prays”, a recent prayer resource, written and edited by Fr Tom Elich, and published by Liturgy Brisbane