Christening Gift? - Brattleboro,VT

A card would be perfect, and if possible, maybe a savings bond for the child which will mature and grow interest. I always give little personalized bible's as christening gifts, with a handwritten note to the baby inside.

In regards to the donation for the church, I'm not sure that's right. It's my understanding that the parents of the child being christened are supposed to make the donation, sounds like they're trying to take some of the bill off themselves, which sort of makes sense since they're paying for the 'party' afterwards, but still pretty tacky.

Hi MamaDu

We are not religious either :) We have 3 godchildren and for each i have always bought a jewelry peice. For friends or friends of friends that we have attended their Christenings we give a card and a check. I have never heard of a donation for the church, that is always somethings the parents of child took care of themselves.

I've never heard of donating to the church, but gifts, although never expected, are pretty common. Some people give religious themed toys and gifts - such as a Noah's ark play set, but lots of people also give either money or gift certificates.

I would get a savings bond. It is really not a toy / clothing gift type occasion. I would not give a donation to the church that is for the parents to do.

I would consider the small donation to the church to be in lieu of a gift, and bring a card. I think they make specific Christening / Baptism cards. And of course, offer to bring a dish or munchies to the gathering.

Never heard of the donation thing, but yes a Christening is a gift-giving occassion much like any other religions or spritual celebration.

Savings bonds and cash are traditional Christening gifts, especially if they are not overly religious. I have also done monogrammed jewelry boxes in sterling silver for baby girls because they will get a lot of religious jewelry for the occassion and it's something that will last into adulthood.