For the adult who is just getting baptized into the religion of choice, this is a memorable day, much like getting married. It takes a lot of thinking and decision making to finally settle on getting baptized into a religion that one was not born and raised into. The baptism is usually held in a church while the celebration after it is usually held somewhere else. Of course, just like any christening, the guests usually bring in christening gifts to welcome the new member and receive baptism favors in return from the hosts. But that is easier said than done as it is easier to get a gift for a baby than it is for an adult. Here are some gift suggestions for adult baptism gifts:
A Sacred Book – no matter the religion there is always a sacred book and it is always a welcome and expected gift. There is no baptism that is without a sacred book given and if there is any, and then someone will rush out to get just to make sure there is at least one given to the celebrant.
A Holy Symbol – this is usually given as a pendant, a brooch or a ring. These symbols are also usually blessed by the celebrating official during the christening. Do not get one that will not represent the religion. In some cultures, receiving such a gift would mean wearing of the item at all times for at least a year.
Prayer Beads – there are several prayer beads used by the worshipper no matter what religion it is. Prayer beads help the worshipper to focus on their prayers and to also guide them through a set or series of prayers. These are usually used everyday especially on holy days.
Holy Oils – these are a little more expensive for these are pure essential oils which are later on blessed by the officiating priest. For Catholics, Frankincense oil is highly valued as much as oil of myrrh both of which were given to the infant Jesus by the Three Kings. The holy oil is used to guard against any form of spiritual warfare and is also used in the last rites.
Decorative Item or Symbol – this is similar to a pendant or a brooch but these are larger and are supposed to be placed on the altar or on the wall. These images may be antique or not, but the most valued are the antique works of art usually made of hand carved wood. The usual images are that of the Virgin Mary and some Saints. They are used as a reminder of the holiness and sacrifice made by the individuals that they represent and to guide the new member to emulate their holy lives.
Blessed Cloth – there are some cloths considered for holy use as they are usually placed on altars. Usually families have an old altar cloth that had been handed down from generation to generation and it is customary for a new member to be welcomed with one or two so they could start their own traditions.
Choosing a gift may be tough, but when one is pointed to the right direction, even getting gifts for newly christened adults can be easy.
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