By Vicky Zevgolatakou
The sacrament of baptism is very unique for a child and is associated with many customs and traditions of our country.
As for the customs related to the duties of the godfather, although in the past there were many more, several of them continue to be observed today. The godfather supplies white clothes for the baby, while also three days before the baptism he brings oil to the priest, who will perform the sacrament to bless it. The godfather is the one who has to buy everything necessary for the baptism and of course, the cross. During the sacrament, he holds the baby in his arms as the priest reads the wishes. He must also tell the priest the child's name.
The godfather is not allowed to baptize children of different sexes.The baptism takes place at least 40 days after the baby's birth.By spreading the Holy Myrrh to the baby we thank God for all the gifts He has given it, while by lighting a big candle we glorify Him. The priest is the first to cut the child's hair since its birth. Also, the water of the baptismal font must be thrown either into the sea or into the soil. The mother should not rinse the Holy Myrrh from the baby for three days, as it protects it from negative energy. The baby's baptism clothes should be white and they symbolize the Holy Spirit it received, as well as purity.
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