We are thrilled to celebrate the baptism of Evara Vasianna Eugénie alongside you, our beloved families and friends. As we gather to welcome Evara into a new chapter of her life, your presence will magnify the warmth and unity of this cherished moment. Herein, you will find all necessary details to partake in the celebrations of this day destined to be engraved in our hearts and memories forever.
The Event
From the ceremony's schedule and reception information to details about customs and significances, everything to make your attendance seamless is right here.
June 16th, 2024
The Religious Ceremony
Location: New "Saint Spyridon" Cathedral
Address: Calea Șerban Vodă 29, Bucharest, Romania 030167
Time: 14:00
Dress code: Formal
*Ladies are welcome to wear headgear ( hats/fascinators/etc.)
the reception
Location: "Le Château"
Address: Strada Turturelelor 11, Bucharest, Romania 030881
Time: 16:00
Dress code: Creative black tie/ Festive attire
The ESSENCE OF THE ORTHODOX BAPTISM
An Orthodox baptism in Romania is a ceremonial tradition rich in symbolism and deep spiritual significance, serving as a rite of initiation into the Christian faith. This sacrament, celebrated with great reverence within the Romanian Orthodox Church, embodies the transmission of spiritual and cultural values through generations, echoing similar rites of passage found in other religions.
At its core, the Orthodox baptism involves three main sacraments: baptism by water, chrismation (anointing with holy oil), and receiving the Holy Eucharist. These acts signify purification, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and incorporation into the Body of Christ, respectively. The ceremony is deeply symbolic, from the immersion in water, which signifies death to sin and rebirth into a new life with Christ, to the wearing of white garments as a symbol of purity and newness of life.
KEY SYMBOLS AND TRADITIONS
Water: Central to the ceremony, water symbolizes cleansing, rebirth, and the Holy Spirit's life-giving power. Immersion in water represents the believer's death to sin and resurrection with Christ.
Chrismation: This anointing with holy oil marks the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit, consecrating the individual as a full member of the Christian community.
White Garment: Worn by the newly baptized, it symbolizes purity, new life, and salvation.
Candle: Carried in procession, the lit candle represents the light of Christ and the enlightenment of the baptized.
Hair Cutting: A small lock of hair is cut in a cross pattern, symbolizing the first offering to God from the newly baptized.
the ceremony unfolded
1. The Welcome
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Description: The ceremony begins outside the church, where the priest welcomes the child, the parents, the godparents and the guests. This symbolizes the child's initial approach to the faith.
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Meaning: Represents the beginning of the individual's journey towards God and the Church's open arms to all seeking faith.
2. The Purifications
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Description: The priest performs several purifications, praying for the child to be protected from the influence of evil spirits.
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Meaning: Signifies purification and the severing of ties with sin, preparing the child for a holy life within the Christian community.
3. The Entrance
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Description: The priest leads the procession into the church, marking the official entry of the child into the house of God.
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Meaning: Symbolizes the child's acceptance into the Church and the beginning of their life in Christ.
4. The Baptismal Vows
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Description: The godparents recite the Nicene Creed on behalf of the child, professing the Christian faith.
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Meaning: Represents the commitment to live according to the Christian faith and teachings, renouncing sin and affirming belief in God.
5. The Sacrament of Baptism
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Description: The child is immersed three times in the baptismal font filled with consecrated water, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
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Meaning: The immersion symbolizes the child's death to sin and rebirth into a new life with Christ. Water is a sign of cleansing, purification, and the nourishing life of the Spirit.
6. The Anointing with Chrism
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Description: Following immersion, the child is anointed with chrism on various parts of the body.
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Meaning: This anointing signifies the sealing of the Holy Spirit, marking the child as a warrior for Christ, endowed with the gifts of the Spirit for strength and protection in their spiritual journey.
7. The Cutting of the Hair
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Description: A small lock of hair is cut from the child's head in a ritual act.
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Meaning: Represents the child's first offering to God, symbolising obedience and the beginning of a life of spirituality.
8. The Dressing in New Clothes
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Description: The child is dressed in a new white garment, often immediately after the baptism.
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Meaning: The white garment symbolizes purity, righteousness, and the new life free from the stain of original sin.
9. The Lit Candle
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Description: The godparents hold a lit candle during the ceremony.
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Meaning: The candle's light represents the light of Christ and the enlightenment that comes from faith, guiding the newly baptized on their path.
10. The Final Blessing
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Description: The ceremony concludes with prayers and blessings for the child and their family and close ones.
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Meaning: Signifies the church's and God's blessings upon the child and their new life , surrounded by the support and love of their close ones.
The baptism ceremony is designed to last approximately 45 minutes. While seating will be available to accommodate our guests, there will be moments during the ceremony that may require standing. Therefore, we kindly suggest choosing comfortable footwear to ensure your ease and enjoyment throughout this special occasion.