Christening in Cyprus

Baptism is probably the second most important family holiday. Godparents are chosen from the closest circle of friends and relatives shortly after the child is born. Cypriots believe that exactly after his/her Baptism the child is assigned a Guardian Angel, who will protect him/her for the rest of his/her life.

The godparents recite the «Symbol of Faith» prayer together with the priest, renouncing the devil three times and promising to obey the Ten Commandments. The priest then blesses the water and the baby is dipped into it three times. He then cuts a lock of hair from the baby's head to signify his/her obedience to God. The baby is then anointed with special oil and dressed in a gown.