What Is The Difference Between A Christening And A Confirmation?

Religion is one of the fundamental societal pillars upon which individuals build their faith and try to make sense of their existence on this amazing planet. It gives individuals a purpose and a reason to become the best versions of themselves. One of the most prevalent religions in the world today is christianity. Every religion has its practices, and so does Christianity.

Two such practices which are often confused with each other are the Christening and the Confirmation. This article will explain how the two differ from each other.

What Is Christening In The Christian Community?

Better known as Baptism, Christening refers only to the baptism of newly born christian children. This practice is traced back to ancient times and is said to have roots in the canonical sacrament, which says that even jesus was baptized. Many families treat this as a very private affair; however, christian families mostly send out christening invitations to the rest of the family.

Christening requires water, and the born baby is either fully or partially immersed in the water. However, currently, the most common practice involves pouring water thrice on the forehead of the baby.

There are different methods of Christening, according to different schools of thought in Christianity.

What Is A Confirmation, According To The Christian Community?

Christening is a coming of age ceremony in the christian and catholic community. Unlike a formal ceremony which requires christening invitation, Confirmation is a more private affair of the church in which a member is celebrated when reaching adulthood. This occurs through collective prayers and the joining of hands. Some churches also sing hymns and praise christ.

Confirmation also gives complete membership to the individual within the church and local Congregation. This strengthens the bond which the individual has with the church – ultimately increasing their faithfulness to their religion. 

How Are The Two Different From Each Other?

Confirmation and Christening are two different practices and should not be confused with each other. There are many differences between the methodologies as well as the general ideologies behind the two practices. These include:

• Christening is a more public affair that involves families and friends, whereas Confirmation is a matter between the individual and the church.  
• Christening occurs when the baby is born, whereas Confirmation is a seal that the individual has come of age and is now a full member of the local Congregation.
• The methodologies for the two practices are also very different. Christening takes place using water and in the name of either christ or the holy trinity. Confirmation takes place in the church by collective prayers, chants, hymns etc. Confirmation increases an individual’s strength with his or her religion, whereas Christening cleanses the soul in christ’s name.
• Christening is necessary for both catholic and christian beliefs. It is also said to protect the child from evil thoughts and entities because a baby is vulnerable. Confirmation, however, is not necessary if we take into account catholic beliefs. Christianity dictates that both practices are essential to achieve religious perfection.

Conclusion

Religion is a beautiful thing, and the practices that come along with it also act as a source of peace for the followers. Christening and Confirmation are two such practices that involve families, friends, and neighbors and hence act to strengthen the love between people and the love between a follower and their religion.