Christening traditions in Madeira - Portugal

Madeira Island as well as Portugal are mainly Catholic. The Christening ceremony used to take place on the early months of the baby's life. Nowadays, some children are baptized when they are several years old. Parents choose the Godparents from the family members or close friends. This was a very important decision because the Godparents would replace the parents in case of necessity.

During the ceremony, the priest greets the parents and child, asks the name of the child, offers prayers and anoints the child with oil and baptizes the child with water. The child dresses a christening white gown or other white garment and a godparent lights a candle to symbolize enlightenment.

After the religious ceremony there is normally a party for family and friends, where guests offer presents for the child.