Planning a Catholic Baptism can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure which items are traditionally needed for the ceremony. We've created this simple Catholic Baptism checklist to help parents and godparents prepare for their child's special day.
Baptism requirements and traditions can vary between churches and parishes, so we always recommend confirming the specific items required with your church before the Baptism.
Catholic Baptism Checklist
Baptism Candle
A baptism candle is traditionally used during the Catholic Baptism ceremony and can become a meaningful keepsake afterwards. Explore our personalised Catholic baptism candles in pillar, glass and personalised designs.
Christening or Baptism Box
A personalised christening box is a beautiful way to present and keep the items prepared for the ceremony, while also creating a special keepsake for after the day. Explore our Christening Boxes .
Baptism Towels
Towels may be required as part of the Baptism ceremony and are often coordinated with the candle and other christening pieces. Check your church's requirements before choosing the towel set for your child's Baptism.
Christening Cross
A cross is commonly associated with the child's Baptism and may be chosen as a meaningful gift or keepsake. Traditions can differ between families and parishes, so confirm any specific requirements with your church.
Christening Outfit
A white or light-coloured baptism outfit is traditionally chosen for the child. Depending on your preference, this may be a christening gown, romper, suit or another special outfit selected for the ceremony.
Personalised Baptism Keepsakes
Families may also choose personalised keepsakes such as a Bible, rosary, hanger, brush or other special pieces to coordinate with the Baptism and keep as treasured reminders of the day.
What Does the Godparent Need for a Catholic Baptism?
The role of the godparent is an important part of a Catholic Baptism. What the godparent is expected to provide can vary depending on the church, parish and family tradition.
Depending on the ceremony, families may prepare items such as the baptism candle, towels, a cross or other baptism essentials. Some celebrations may also include godparent taper candles.
Before purchasing your ceremony items, check with the church and ask exactly what the parents and godparents are expected to bring.
Catholic Baptism Bomboniere & Favours
Bomboniere are a beautiful way to thank family and friends for sharing in your child's Baptism. Choose favours that complement the style, colours and personalisation used throughout the celebration.
Everything Together
Catholic Baptism & Christening Packages
Prefer to coordinate your ceremony essentials together? Our personalised Christening Packages make it easy to create a beautifully coordinated set for your child's special day.
Helpful Information
Catholic Baptism FAQs
What do I need to bring to a Catholic Baptism?
The items required can vary between churches and parishes. Depending on the ceremony, you may be asked to bring items such as a baptism candle, towels, the child's baptism outfit and other ceremony essentials. Always confirm your church's requirements before the Baptism.
Who buys the baptism candle?
Who purchases the baptism candle can depend on family tradition and the requirements of the parish. In some families the godparent may provide ceremony items, while in others the parents organise them. Check with your church and family before purchasing.
What does the godparent need for a Catholic Baptism?
Godparent responsibilities and the items they are expected to provide can vary between parishes and families. The baptism candle, towels, cross or other ceremony pieces may form part of the preparation, but your church should confirm exactly what is required.
Do I need a christening box for a Catholic Baptism?
A christening box is a beautiful way to organise, present and keep the items prepared for the Baptism, but whether one is required for the ceremony will depend on your church and personal preference. Our personalised christening boxes can also be kept as a keepsake after the celebration.
What should a baby wear for a Catholic Baptism?
White or light-coloured clothing is traditionally associated with Baptism. Families may choose a christening gown, romper, suit or another special outfit. Ask your parish if it has any specific clothing requirements for the ceremony.
Preparing for Their Catholic Baptism
Explore personalised baptism candles, christening boxes, ceremony essentials and coordinated packages designed to help you prepare for their special day.