Christianity
What is Baptism?
Baptism is about becoming part of the community of faith, because of its connection to community of is celebrated in the parish church
What is Brit Milah?
A Jewish Rite of Initiation where boys are circumcised.
What is a Bar/Bat Mitzvah?
A bar mitzvah is a Jewish coming-of-age ceremony for boys, typically held when they turn 13 years old. It signifies the transition to religious adulthood, where the boy is held accountable for observing Jewish law and participating in religious life.
What is a Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is an Islamic practice that involves the sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep or goat, as a form of gratitude when a child is born.
What is Ecumenism?
- Unity between all Christian Denominations
- The idea is to recognise that with similar beliefs and bring different denominations together. This allows people to live in peace and harmony
What is the meaning of water?
Washes away Sin
Reminder that God provides it
It is necessary for life, and it symbolizes Life Giving Grace that sustains those that are Gods children
Who do they worship?
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob
What book do they learn to read?
Torah
Where does the gold go and how is it determined?
It goes to the poor and it is based on the weight of the baby's hair
Who is a part of the Christian Denominations? Give 2 different religions
- Catholic
- Anglican
- Baptist
- Lutheran
- Presbyterian
Who do they worship?
The Holy Trinity - God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit
Why is this performed?
It is a sign of the newborn boy's entry into the Jewish tradition. It also links to his Jewish brothers
What is the Tefillin? What is its significance?
Two small black boxes with black straps - required to wear one on their head and one tied on their arm
Reminds them of God's commandment 'you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your might'
What are some symbols?
- Mashed Date, sugar or honey
- A sacrificed animal
- Gold or Silver coins
- Shaved Hair
What are the common beliefs between Christians?
- One God as Trinity
- Jesus Christ is the Son of God
- Jesus died and rose again
- All humans are born with original sin
- There is a day of judgement
What are the main symbols of Baptism? Choose 2 and explain what they symbolise.
Acceptable Answer:
The Sign of the Cross is traced on the baby’s forehead, symbolizing the baby being claimed by Christ. This signals a change in ownership that occurs after baptism, that the baptised belong to God
The Oil of Catechumens is smeared on the child's chest as a sign of healing and strengthening
Water is the most important symbol used in Baptism. It is necessary for life, and it symbolizes Life Giving Grace that sustains those that are Gods children
The White garments used to clothe the baptized is an outward sign of Christian dignity and a symbol of new lie in Christ
The baptismal candle, which is lit from the Paschal candle is presented to the newly baptized as a sign of receiving the light of Christ. It is entrusted to the parents to be kept burning brightly so that the child's faith will be kept alive
What are the main symbols?
The Chair of Prophet Elijah or Milah - person who performs the circumcision
How long prior do they read the book?
How long prior do they learn to wear the tefillin?
Months even years
Two months before their 13th birthday
What is the meaning of the Symbol Gold/Silver
Gold symbolises generosity, gratitude to God, and social responsibility. By giving away something valuable after weighing the baby’s hair, the family demonstrates that wealth should be shared and used to help others. This act teaches the child from birth the importance of charity, compassion, and supporting those in need.
What are some differences between the different denominations?
- The scriptures
- The basis of Salvation
- The ritual of Baptism
- After Death
- Election of Women
Explain the 5 stages of a Baptism
On Answer Sheet
Explain the 5 stages of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Answer on sheet
Explain the 5 stages of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah
Answers on Sheet
How do Christians see Baptism?
- They see this initiation rite as an opportunity to unify the Christian Faith
- It allows to be part of a Holy Family and Community
- Brings people together