1
Day of Birth
Blessing at Birth
The priest offers prayers for the health and well-being of the mother and newborn child. This blessing usually takes place at the hospital.
Welcoming New Life
New Baby Blessings
Prayers for mother and child at the beginning of a new life.
An Orthodox Tradition
Preparing for the Birth of Your Child
If you are preparing to welcome a new baby, there are several beautiful Orthodox traditions to know about. At the beginning of a child's life, the priest is called to offer a series of short prayers and blessings for the well-being of both mother and child.
Families are encouraged to notify the parish priest during the pregnancy and to contact him after the child is born. He will help arrange each blessing and answer any questions you may have.
A Child's First Forty Days
The Three Blessings
8
Eighth Day
Naming of the Child
On the eighth day, prayers are offered and the child is formally given his or her name. This blessing usually takes place in the family home.
40
Fortieth Day
Churching of Mother and Child
The mother and baby come to the church for the 40-day blessing and are prayerfully welcomed into the worshipping life of the parish.
Contacting the Priest
Please let the priest know when you are expecting your baby. After the birth, do not hesitate to call or email him so that the first blessing can be arranged.
If your family is unable to receive the first blessing on the day of birth, there is no need to worry. Contact the priest and he can offer both the birth and naming prayers when he visits on or near the eighth day.
What to expect: Each blessing takes approximately five
minutes and consists of prayers for the health, protection and spiritual
well-being of the mother and child.
We're Here for Your Family
Contact Fr. Ted
Please contact Fr. Ted at any time for more information or to arrange one of these blessings.