Christening and baptism?

Question

I've just had a discussion with hubby about this issue. The two of us are not religious and I, more so than him, am pretty against religion in our baby's life. I know when the time comes, my parents are really going to push for a christening and baptism. This is very upsetting to me, I don't think it's fair to impose a religion which I don't even support or practice on my baby. I think the baby should have a choice and when uts older and decides it wants to be baptised I will be in full support. My husband supports my thoughts but says he doesn't understand my stance. He says it would save everyone a lot of trouble to just do it. It's so upsetting to me. Thoughts? Also, please keep in mind this is a peaceful and respectful discussion. I'm not here to offend any Christians so please don't offend me.

Answer

My hubby and I are not religious either. We don't go to any religious services or go to a church. I told my mom that I felt it would be hypocritical to seek out some religious place and person to do this one thing, knowing fully that it would be the first and last time my child would be I. that religious place. 
If you aren't going to practice and teach the child whatever religion, then it doesn't make sense to get them baptized into that religion. Isn't the whole idea that someone makes a promise to bring that child up with whatever faith/religion they are having water poured over their head about? Would your parents really prefer that you stand up in their religious place of worship and make a bold faced lie under that roof, in the perceived presence of their god and religious leader? 
Maybe that'll help?

Answer

If you don't believe in religion, pouring some water over your kid's head will not magically make your child religious. If your husband would like to do it I would say go for it. It takes a lot more than a baptism to makes kid religious. It would mean nothing if you do it but would make him and the family happy.

Now, if you are concerned that agreeing to the baptism will lead to more stuff the 
I can see why you would opt out.

Answer

I don't know where you are from sorry but here in the UK i have been to quite a few 'naming ceremonies'. Essentially it is the same as a christening but without all the religion. Every body gets together to officially name a baby and when has the usual after party. Perfect for those who don't followa religion :)

Answer

The point of a baptism is to welcome the child into the church and teach him the religion. I agree with you - if you're not going to do that, then don't get him baptised.

Answer

I can see what you're saying but I do agree with your husband.

Answer

Well....
If it was my kid I'd have a problem with it, too. 
The bible is clear that baptism is supposed to be a choice. It's not a cute family ritual; it's a covenant with God. If your child ever gets baptized, then it should be it's choice, and only after its read the bible and scriptures and is mature enough to understand what it's about and why they're doing it.
If I were you, I'd just explain that choosing a religion is very personal, and you want your baby to make the choice on its own to have a relationship with God or not. I'd let them educate your baby on their religion, but also let the child know that you love and support them no matter what God they worship, or if they choose not to worship any God at all.

Answer

My husband is Christian, and I am Pagan - we both agreed not to introduce religious beliefs to our potential children at an early age. Our family do not understand, but we stay strong, it's important for us to have them make their own decisions. I wish you the best - it's a difficult position to be in. No matter what, it's your family, your child - they have no right to shame you into something you are uncomfortable with.

Answer

It doesn't save anyone trouble. Except maybe you guys being saved from being pestered.

Answer

I will be in the same boat when my husband and I have kids. Actually, my mother will be the only parent who'll be upset about it... But then we have siblings/aunts/uncles/etc. His family is even more religious than mine, but we have no intentions of raising our children with any faith unless/until they are curious and want to be introduced to it themselves. We are both scientists so that's a major influence for us. I'm all for compromising to keep the peace sometimes, but this is simply not one of those things for us. Our families, fortunately, aren't crazy enough to disown us over it but maybe we'll be black sheep. Good thing I like black.

Christening and baptism?

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