The christening gown: origin and symbolism
In the Catholic Church, the baby traditionally wears a white baptismal gown for baptism. It is intended to symbolize the special nature of the day and the close connection to Jesus Christ. Here you can find out about the origin of the christening gown and the exact symbolism.
The white baptismal robe has been an integral part of Christian baptismal liturgy since the 4th century. In the past, only adults were baptized, who then put on a white robe as a sign of their new life with God. This symbolic act was later continued when children were also baptized.
Christening gown: Its role during baptism
The christening gown is put on the baptized after the actual baptismal act. The baptizer says: “This white robe is to be a sign to you that you have been created anew in baptism and – as the Scriptures say – have put on Christ as your robe. Preserve that dignity for eternal life.”
Putting on the baptismal gown is therefore a symbolic act that is primarily intended to symbolize the connection with Jesus Christ. In a parable, Jesus himself calls it the “marriage garment”. In a figurative sense, therefore, Jesus is the bridegroom of the person to be baptized, and through baptism he enters into a covenant with Jesus and God.
Why is the christening gown white?
The color of the christening gown can be interpreted in different ways. In its original meaning, white meant solemnity and joy. According to more recent interpretations, it also stands for purity and innocence.
The white color can also be understood as a symbol for eternal life. In the past, the deceased were wrapped in white shrouds, which can be seen as a kind of reference to baptism. They symbolized that God is both the beginning and the end and that every baptized person lives on in God even after death.
Why is the christening gown so long?
The excessive length of the baptismal robe is meant to symbolize the greatness of God. It says that God and faith in him are so great that the person being baptized must first grow into their new role as a Christian. The clergymen’s vestments, which they wear under their chasubles during services, are also always a bit too long for the same reason and protrude below the chasuble.
The baptismal dress in the evangelical church
For the Protestant Church, the christening robe is of little importance today, since the use of symbols is largely avoided in the Protestant faith. Despite this, many families use it out of tradition.